Tue Sep 24 22:37:58 UTC 2024: ## Sri Lanka’s New President Pledges Neutrality Amidst Geopolitical Tensions

**Colombo, Sri Lanka** – Anura Kumara Dissanayake, the newly elected President of Sri Lanka, has declared his intention to steer the country away from geopolitical alliances, emphasizing a path of neutrality amidst growing tensions between China and India.

Dissanayake, leader of the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP), made his stance clear in an interview with The Monocle ahead of the election. “We don’t want Sri Lanka to be sandwiched, especially between China and India,” he said. He further elaborated on his foreign policy vision: “We won’t be a part of that geopolitical fight, nor will we be aligned with any party.”

Despite his stance on neutrality, Dissanayake acknowledged both China and India as “valued friends,” emphasizing a desire to maintain strong partnerships with both countries. “Under an NPP government, we expect them to become close partners. We also want to maintain relations with the EU, the Middle East and Africa,” he added.

Dissanayake’s victory marks a significant shift in Sri Lankan politics. The JVP, which leads the NPP coalition, has transitioned from its revolutionary past to become a major force in Sri Lankan democracy.

Following Dissanayake’s victory, both India and China have extended their congratulations. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed optimism for strengthening bilateral relations, emphasizing Sri Lanka’s importance in India’s Neighborhood First Policy and Vision SAGAR. Chinese President Xi Jinping also conveyed his congratulations, acknowledging the critical role China plays in Sri Lanka’s economic future.

China, one of Sri Lanka’s largest creditors, has a substantial influence on the country’s development. A previous debt restructuring deal secured China a 99-year lease on Sri Lanka’s Hambantota port, highlighting the country’s strategic importance in the region.

Dissanayake’s vision for a neutral Sri Lanka, navigating between major powers, will be closely watched as the country strives to navigate a complex geopolitical landscape.

Read More