Sat Apr 05 11:19:26 UTC 2025: ## India and Sri Lanka Strengthen Ties with Seven New MOUs During Modi’s Visit

**Colombo, Sri Lanka –** Prime Minister Narendra Modi concluded a successful visit to Sri Lanka on April 5th, 2025, marked by the signing of seven Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with President Anura Kumara Dissanayake. The agreements cover a wide range of areas, including a significant defence cooperation pact, energy sector collaboration (with plans to develop Trincomalee as an energy hub), digitisation efforts, healthcare, and multi-sectoral assistance to Sri Lanka’s Eastern Province.

The defence MoU, described as an “umbrella agreement” by Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, aims to formalize and strengthen existing defence cooperation between the two nations. Further solidifying the partnership, India announced it would reduce interest rates on existing loans to Sri Lanka, converting over $100 million in loans to grants to aid in debt restructuring.

President Dissanayake reaffirmed Sri Lanka’s commitment to preventing its territory from being used against India’s security interests, praising India’s role as a regional and global leader. He bestowed the ‘Sri Lanka Mitra Vibhushana’ award upon Prime Minister Modi in recognition of India’s unwavering support.

In a gesture of cultural exchange, Prime Minister Modi announced that relics of the Buddha, discovered in Gujarat in 1960, will be sent to Sri Lanka for exhibition during the Vesak festival in May. India also pledged support for the renovation of the Thirukoneswaram temple and the construction of sacred sites in Anuradhapura and Nuwara Eliya.

The visit included a ceremonial welcome, bilateral discussions, and delegation-level talks. The Prime Minister’s itinerary also included the virtual launch of a cold storage plant in Dambulla and a solar power plant in Trincomalee. He will continue his trip to Anuradhapura and Rameswaram on April 6th. The visit underscores the growing strategic partnership between India and Sri Lanka.

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