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COLOMBO (News 1st); Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh says he is looking forward to a “productive engagement” with Sri Lanka’s leadership during his three-day official visit to the country.
In a post on X, Singh said he would also interact with the “vibrant Indian diaspora” in Sri Lanka.
He highlighted the longstanding partnership between India and Sri Lanka, as well as their deep historical and civilisational ties.
Singh described Sri Lanka as one of India’s most important partners under its Neighbourhood First and MAHASAGAR initiatives.
According to India’s Ministry of Defence, Singh is scheduled to meet President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya and Defence Secretary Sampath Thuyacontha during his visit.
He is also expected to meet members of the Indian community in Colombo.
The Indian Defence Ministry said the visit is aimed at further strengthening bilateral cooperation in defence, economic engagement, maritime affairs and regional security.
The visit marks the first official visit to Sri Lanka by an Indian Defence Minister in 38 years. The last such visit was made by K.C. Pant in 1988.
Story written by Buddmin Amaradiwakara
