No Indian Expansionism Fears, JVP Ready to Work with Any State - AKD

by Zulfick Farzan 15-02-2024 | 11:30 AM

COLOMBO (News 1st); Anura Kumara Dissanayake, leader of the Jathika Jana Balavegaya, articulated that the primary concern raised during his visit to India pertained to the utilization of Sri Lankan territory in a manner that could potentially impact India's national security. 

A clarification was provided by Dissanayake  during an exclusive interview with News First.

Dissanayake offered insights into the potential motivations behind the invitation and emphasized the JVP's commitment to national security and responsible geopolitics.

Commenting on India's possible reasoning for inviting his party, Dissanayake suggested that it could be linked to the "actual ground situation" in Sri Lanka, potentially acknowledging a shift from traditional power dynamics. 

He acknowledged India's concern about Sri Lanka's territory not being used against their geopolitical interests, considering it "a reasonable expectation."

Dissanayake highlighted India's close monitoring of Sri Lankan politics and their expectations for the nation's future political landscape. He emphasized that the JVP is "not a polarized movement" but "prepared to work with any state" while prioritizing the needs of the people.

Acknowledging historical conflicts between Sri Lanka and India, Dissanayake stressed that both nations and the global landscape have undergone significant changes. He noted that both sides acknowledged these changes, indicating a potential for renewed understanding.

"There was nothing to hide," Dissanayake asserted, reiterating that India's primary concern was Sri Lanka's commitment to national security and not being used against their interests. He concluded by distancing the JVP from any notions of "Indian Expansionism."