26-December-2024-Editorial

RECENT VISIT OF SRI LANKAN PRESIDENT TO INDIA

The first visit to India by the new Sri Lankan President focused on enhancing trade, energy, and maritime cooperation. Discussions with Indian leaders revolved around economic recovery, addressing Tamil aspirations, and countering Chinese influence, aligning with India’s “Neighbourhood First” policy and SAGAR Vision (Security and Growth for All in the Region).

Highlights of the Visit

Economic and Trade Agreements

• Talks were held on proposed Economic and Technology Cooperation Agreements (ETCAs) to integrate technology and services into trade.
• India agreed to promote trade settlements in Indian Rupee (INR) and Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR).
• Capacity-building programs for Sri Lankan civil servants, including training for 1,500 officials, were announced.

Energy Partnership

• India pledged to supply Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) to help Sri Lanka meet its energy demands.
• Both nations, along with the UAE, announced plans for a regional energy pipeline to ensure energy security.
• Renewable energy projects, such as offshore wind power and regional grid interconnections, were prioritized.
• Trincomalee is to be developed as an energy hub for the region.

Infrastructure and Connectivity

• Ferry services between India and Sri Lanka are to resume, enhancing people-to-people connections.
• Development of Kankesanthurai port and housing projects were discussed under India’s “Neighbourhood First” initiative.
• Expansion of digital infrastructure in Sri Lanka was also a focus.

Regional Security Cooperation

• Both countries emphasized improving maritime security and expanding cooperation in the Indian Ocean region.
• Enhancing joint surveillance and addressing shared security concerns were highlighted.

Financial Support

• India’s financial aid, including USD 4 billion for food, fuel, and medicines, played a vital role in stabilizing Sri Lanka’s economy during its financial crisis.

Global Cooperation

• Sri Lanka sought India’s support for its bid to join the BRICS group.
• India was also requested to assist Sri Lanka in matters related to the United Nations Commission on the Limits of the Continental Shelf.

Key Areas of India-Sri Lanka Cooperation

Economic Collaboration

• India is Sri Lanka’s largest trade partner in the SAARC region, with bilateral trade valued at USD 5.5 billion in FY 2023-24.
• Both nations benefit from the India-Sri Lanka Free Trade Agreement.

Development Assistance

• India has extended development aid through Lines of Credit (LOCs) under the Indian Development and Economic Assistance Scheme (IDEAS).
• Over USD 2 billion in LOCs have supported projects in railways, healthcare, infrastructure, and power transmission.
• Initiatives like the Jaffna Cultural Center and Suwa Seriya ambulance services have improved Sri Lanka’s socio-economic framework.

Energy Cooperation

• India is promoting renewable energy projects in Sri Lanka, such as hybrid power systems in Jaffna.
• Collaborative energy security projects, including offshore wind farms and LNG supply, have been prioritized.

Defense and Security

• Defense ties include joint military exercises like Mitra Shakti and naval drills like SLINEX.
• A Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre has been set up with Indian assistance to enhance Sri Lanka’s maritime capabilities.
• India continues to support Sri Lanka’s efforts in counterterrorism and environmental disaster management.

Cultural and Educational Exchange

• Strong historical and cultural ties are reinforced through scholarships, restoration of Buddhist heritage sites, and technology sharing in education.

Maritime Cooperation

• Both countries are working on sustainable resource management in the Indian Ocean and addressing issues like illegal fishing.
• Joint patrols and fishing agreements are aimed at protecting marine ecosystems and livelihoods.

Challenges in India-Sri Lanka Relations

• Fishing Disputes: Indian fishermen using bottom trawling in Sri Lankan waters have caused tensions, leading to arrests and diplomatic challenges.
• Katchatheevu Island Dispute: Ownership and fishing rights around Katchatheevu Island remain a contentious issue, impacting bilateral relations.
• Ethnic and Political Issues: India’s support for Tamil minorities in Sri Lanka faces resistance from certain political groups. The delay in implementing the 13th Amendment for Tamil-majority areas is a long-standing concern.
• Geopolitical Rivalries: China’s growing presence in Sri Lanka, especially in projects like Hambantota Port, poses strategic challenges for India.
• Maritime Boundary Issues: Disputes over international waters, such as the Afanasy Nikitin Seamount, have created diplomatic hurdles.

Way Forward

Strengthening Dialogue

• Regular diplomatic discussions on key issues like fishing rights, Tamil reconciliation, and maritime disputes are essential.
• Regional platforms like BIMSTEC can be utilized for collaborative problem-solving.

Economic Integration

• Expanding trade agreements and infrastructure links, such as ferry services and energy pipelines, will foster stronger economic ties.
• Joint projects like undersea energy cables can offer mutual benefits.

Sustainable Fisheries Management

• Joint initiatives for sustainable fishing practices, capacity-building programs, and alternative livelihoods for fishermen can address disputes.

Focused Development Assistance

• India should continue its role as a development partner, prioritizing renewable energy, education, and digital governance.
• Green debt swaps can align development goals with sustainability.

Counterbalancing Geopolitical Challenges

• Strategic investments and diplomatic outreach are crucial to counter China’s growing influence in Sri Lanka.
• Ensuring that India’s support aligns with Sri Lanka’s long-term interests will enhance bilateral trust.

Conclusion

India-Sri Lanka relations are rooted in shared history and cultural ties. The recent visit of the Sri Lankan President has reaffirmed their commitment to deeper collaboration in trade, energy, and security. Addressing challenges and leveraging opportunities will ensure long-term stability and mutual growth in the region.