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“The visit underscores India’s Neighbourhood First Policy and takes place in the context of Operation Sagar Bandhu launched to address the devastation caused by Cyclone Ditwah,” the MEA said.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar being welcomed by Sri Lankan Minister Ruwan Ranasinghe in Colombo, Monday. (PTI)
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar landed in Colombo Monday to hold talks with Sri Lanka’s top leadership as the island nation begins reconstruction efforts following Cyclone Ditwah.
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Jaishankar is visiting Sri Lanka as PM Narendra Modi’s special envoy.
“The visit underscores India’s Neighbourhood First Policy and takes place in the context of Operation Sagar Bandhu launched to address the devastation caused by Cyclone Ditwah,” the MEA said.
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Cyclone Ditwah killed over 640 people in Sri Lanka and damaged critical transport infrastructures. India launched Operation Sagar Bandhu on November 28 to help the island nation. India has provided over 1,134 tonnes of humanitarian assistance, including dry rations, tents, tarpaulins, hygiene kits, clothing, water purification systems and 14.5 tonnes of medicines and surgical equipment.
“Landed in Colombo this evening. Thank (Sri Lanka’s) Deputy Tourism Minister Ruwan Ranasinghe for the warm reception. Look forward to my meetings with Sri Lankan leadership tomorrow,” Jaishankar said on X.
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Earlier, PM Modi held a telephonic conversation with Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and assured India’s continued assistance to the flood-hit island nation.
Modi said the people of India “stand in firm solidarity” with Sri Lanka during this crisis, and reaffirmed New Delhi’s commitment to supporting rescue, relief and rehabilitation efforts.
Meanwhile, Indian Naval ships INS Vikrant, INS Udaygiri, INS Sukanya, LCU-54, LCU-57, LCU-51 and INS Gharial delivered relief material to Colombo and Trincomalee, apart from ICG Ship Shaurya.
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