Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa, who is currently on an official visit to India, met with Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman today at the Finance Ministry in New Delhi to discuss deepening bilateral economic cooperation and enhancing regional integration. Sri Lanka Latest News
During the meeting, Minister Sitharaman began by commending Sri Lanka’s natural resources and skilled human capital. She stressed the importance of leveraging these strengths through closer engagement with India’s evolving economy. The Minister further noted that Sri Lankan industries have significant potential to expand by gaining access to a large market like India, while emphasising that strong domestic industries will help strengthen Sri Lanka’s economic sovereignty.
Opposition Leader Premadasa expressed his gratitude for India’s support during Sri Lanka’s 2022 economic crisis, highlighting the US$ 4 billion assistance package, which he described as the largest financial support extended to Sri Lanka by any single nation. He also praised India’s success in industrial policy and digital governance, acknowledging that despite current stability, Sri Lanka continues to face key challenges including rebuilding foreign reserves, diversifying exports, and reducing poverty.
Both parties agreed on the need for transparent and trust-based economic cooperation. Premadasa proposed the establishment of an India–Sri Lanka Industrial Zone to boost joint ventures and technology transfer. He also called for modernising the Indo–Sri Lanka Free Trade Agreement to reflect contemporary trade needs.
Highlighting the importance of innovation-driven economic planning, Premadasa emphasised the value of public–private partnerships, and stronger collaboration between research and business sectors, following India’s development model.
He reaffirmed that the Samagi Jana Balawegaya is committed to fostering close economic and cultural ties with India, built on mutual respect and the long-standing partnership between the two nations.
