The Government of India has appointed Shri Santosh Jha (IFS: 1993), presently Ambassador of India to Belgium, as the next High Commissioner of India to Sri Lanka. He is expected to take up the assignment shortly.

Shri Jha is a career diplomat with over 28 years of experience in the Indian Foreign Service. He has served in various capacities in India's diplomatic missions in Russia, Uzbekistan, and the United States. He was also the Deputy Chief of Mission in the Embassy of India in Washington, D.C.

In his previous assignment as Ambassador of India to Belgium, Shri Jha has played a key role in strengthening India's bilateral relations with Belgium and the European Union. He has also been actively involved in promoting trade and investment between India and Belgium.

Shri Jha is a graduate of the University of Delhi and the Jawaharlal Nehru University. He is also a recipient of the Indian Foreign Service Award for Excellence.

His appointment as the next High Commissioner of India to Sri Lanka is a recognition of his diplomatic skills and experience. He is expected to play a key role in further strengthening India's relations with Sri Lanka.

In a statement, the Ministry of External Affairs said that Shri Jha's appointment is a "reflection of the strong and close ties" between India and Sri Lanka. The ministry said that Shri Jha will work to "further deepen and diversify" the bilateral relationship.

Shri Jha's appointment is also seen as a sign of India's commitment to help Sri Lanka overcome its current economic crisis. India has already extended financial assistance to Sri Lanka and is working to provide further support.