According to a statement from the Indian Ministry of External Affairs, the two leaders held productive discussions aimed at further deepening the multifaceted bilateral ties between the two nations, rooted in shared history and cultural values.
During the talks, both parties emphasized the importance of strengthening existing cooperation. A significant portion of the discussion focused on the progress of Indian-funded development initiatives, specifically the "Indian Housing Projects" and the USD 450 million assistance package dedicated to rehabilitation efforts in areas recently devastated by Cyclone Ditwah. The Vice President reaffirmed India’s commitment to its "Neighbourhood First" policy, ensuring continued support for Sri Lanka’s development and recovery.
Shri C.P. Radhakrishnan arrived at the Bandaranaike International Airport earlier today, where he was warmly received by the Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Sunil Kumara Gamage, alongside Indian High Commissioner Santosh Jha and senior officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This visit marks a continuation of high-level diplomatic engagements between the two neighbors and includes a scheduled meeting with Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya.
The Vice President's itinerary also includes spiritual and community engagements. He is expected to seek blessings at the **Kadiresan Kovil** in Bambalapitiya and the **Gangaramaya Temple** in Hunupitiya before meeting with members of the Indian diaspora in Colombo. These interactions highlight the deep-rooted civilizational and people-to-people connections that bind the two countries.
On the second day of his visit, tomorrow (April 20), the Vice President will travel to Nuwara Eliya to personally inspect the housing projects being built with Indian assistance. He is also slated to meet with the Malayaha Tamil community and visit the Seetha Amman Kovil for religious observances before concluding his official tour and departing from the island.
