The official welcoming ceremony for Indian Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, who arrived in Sri Lanka on a state visit at the invitation of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, was held this morning at the historic Independence Square in Colombo. The event took place under the patronage of President Dissanayake.
Prime Minister Modi’s visit symbolizes the enduring bond between the two nations, reaffirming the spirit of “Friendship of Centuries, Commitment to a Prosperous Future” that defines the India-Sri Lanka relationship.
Upon his arrival at the Independence Square premises, Prime Minister Modi was warmly received by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and escorted by the Police Cavalry Corps, adding ceremonial grandeur to the occasion.
The welcoming ceremony commenced with the playing of the national anthems of both Sri Lanka and India, followed by a 21-gun salute in honour of the Indian Premier. Prime Minister Modi was then accorded full state honours and inspected a ceremonial guard of honour presented by the Sri Lankan armed forces.
Following the presentation of honours, both Prime Minister Modi and President Dissanayake received official awards. Subsequently, members of the Indian and Sri Lankan delegations were formally introduced.
Among the distinguished Sri Lankan officials in attendance were:
- Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya
- Speaker Jagath Wickramaratne
- Minister of Foreign Affairs, Overseas Employment and Tourism Vijitha Herath
- Minister of Labour and Deputy Minister of Economic Development Anil Jayantha Fernando
- Minister of Industries and Entrepreneurship Development Sunil Handunnetti
- Minister of Health and Mass Media Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa
- Minister of Fisheries, Aquatic and Marine Resources Ramalingam Chandrasekhar
- Governor of the Western Province Hanif Yusuf
The Indian delegation included:
- Indian Minister of External Affairs Dr. S. Jaishankar
- National Security Advisor Ajit Doval
- Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri
- Indian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka Santosh Jha
- Along with a group of senior officials from both nations
The visit marks a significant step in strengthening bilateral relations, with both countries reaffirming their shared commitment to regional cooperation, prosperity, and mutual respect.
