Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake met with Indian President Droupadi Murmu on Monday to discuss enhancing the "long-standing" relationship between India and Sri Lanka. Describing the meeting as "meaningful," Dissanayake stated that their talks focused on regional security and mutual cooperation. He expressed gratitude for the warm hospitality and dinner hosted by President Murmu.

The President's Secretariat also confirmed the meeting and emphasized India's ongoing support for Sri Lanka's "sustainable development."

According to a post from Rashtrapati Bhavan, President Murmu hosted a banquet for Dissanayake and assured continued support for Sri Lanka's economic development as a close and trusted partner.

Dissanayake is on a three-day state visit to India from December 15-17, marking his first visit to India since assuming office in September.

Earlier in the day, President Murmu formally welcomed Dissanayake with a ceremonial reception at Rashtrapati Bhavan. In addition to his meeting with President Murmu, Dissanayake engaged with Indian business leaders, promoting Sri Lanka as an investor-friendly destination. He encouraged them to explore opportunities in sectors such as tourism, IT, and renewable energy.

Dissanayake also sought Prime Minister Modi's backing for Sri Lanka's bid to join BRICS, while Modi appreciated Sri Lanka's support for India's 2028-2029 non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council The Sri Lankan President reiterated that Sri Lanka would not allow its territory to be used in ways that could threaten India's security. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to combating both traditional and non-traditional threats and ensuring a secure and open Indian Ocean Region.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from Business Standard