India, Sri Lanka discuss oil pipeline, expand strategic and development cooperation

Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan on Sunday held extensive talks with Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, focusing on a proposed India–Sri Lanka oil pipeline and a range of initiatives aimed at strengthening bilateral ties.

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said the leaders discussed key proposals, including the development of Trincomalee as an energy hub and enhancing energy connectivity through a pipeline linking the two countries. He underlined the relevance of such cooperation at a time when the region is grappling with the fallout of the ongoing West Asia crisis and global energy uncertainties.

Marking a significant milestone, this is the first-ever visit by an Indian Vice President to Sri Lanka , reflecting the growing depth of engagement between the two neighbours.

During the meeting, both sides reviewed the full spectrum of bilateral relations, emphasising shared history, strong civilisational bonds and expanding people-to-people ties. President Dissanayake appreciated India’s consistent support, particularly during Sri Lanka’s 2022 economic crisis , and highlighted the positive impact of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy .

The leaders also assessed progress on ongoing Indian-assisted projects, notably the USD 450 million package for reconstruction and rehabilitation in areas affected by Cyclone Ditwah. Special focus was placed on support to the Indian-origin Tamil community.

The long-standing fishermen issue also figured in the discussions, with both sides agreeing to address it in a humanitarian manner , balancing enforcement concerns with the livelihoods of fishing communities.

Vice President Radhakrishnan held separate meetings with Sri Lankan Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya and Leader of the Opposition Sajith Premadasa. These interactions centred on strengthening cooperation across sectors and enhancing mutual trust. Premadasa described India and Sri Lanka as “true partners” with shared challenges and opportunities.

At a community reception organised by the Indian diaspora, Radhakrishnan virtually handed over houses built under the Indian Housing Project for Tamil communities. With this phase, the total number of houses constructed has reached 50,000 , while an additional 10,000 houses are being built under the fourth phase.

Addressing the gathering in Tamil, the Vice President highlighted the shared cultural heritage symbolised by the recent celebration of the Tamil and Sinhala New Year on the same day , calling it a reflection of enduring civilisational ties.

Radhakrishnan also met leaders of Sri Lankan Tamil and Indian-origin Tamil parties, who expressed gratitude for India’s continued assistance, including post-cyclone relief efforts and development support.

Discussions during the visit also covered the proposed Economic and Technology Cooperation Agreement (ETCA) and the ongoing digital ID project , signalling efforts to deepen economic and technological collaboration.

The Vice President visited prominent religious sites in Colombo, including the Gangaramaya Temple and the New Kathiresan Temple, where he received a traditional welcome.

Arriving with a 49-member delegation , Radhakrishnan was received at Bandaranaike International Airport by Sri Lankan ministers and senior officials. On Monday, he is scheduled to travel to Nuwara Eliya to review housing projects and interact with the local Tamil community.

The visit, coming amid renewed high-level engagements, is expected to further consolidate India–Sri Lanka relations , with a focus on energy security, development partnership and cultural connectivity.