Sri Lankan Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya has welcomed closer business ties, increased investment, and more tourist arrivals from India, reaffirming Colombo's commitment to deepening cooperation with New Delhi. Addressing a commemorative dinner marking India's 77th Republic Day and Sri Lanka's 78th Independence Day, Dr. Amarasuriya said the island nation looks forward to expanded connections with Indian businesses and greater people-to-people exchanges through tourism.
The event was organized by the Sri Lanka India Society and was attended by diplomats, business leaders, and members of the Indian community. Dr. Amarasuriya described India as Sri Lanka's "closest partner" and acknowledged New Delhi's consistent support during challenging times. She said her government remained committed to advancing bilateral cooperation across economic, cultural, and social sectors.
The Prime Minister noted that stronger engagement with India would contribute to Sri Lanka's economic recovery and regional stability, adding that both countries share deep historical and cultural ties that should be translated into practical collaboration and mutually beneficial growth.
These remarks come amid growing Indian investment interest in Sri Lanka and rising tourist arrivals from India, now one of the island's largest source markets.