Sri Lankan PM Harini Amarasuriya in India for Three-Day Visit
Sri Lankan Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya commenced her official visit to India on Thursday, marking her first trip to the country since assuming office. The three-day visit, from October 16-18, aims to bolster the longstanding partnership between the two neighboring nations and foster deeper cooperation in various sectors.
Diplomatic engagements and bilateral cooperation
On the first day of her visit, Prime Minister Amarasuriya met with Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar in New Delhi. The leaders discussed enhancing bilateral cooperation, focusing on areas such as education, capacity building, and digital governance. Jaishankar expressed India’s continued support to Sri Lanka, emphasizing the importance of strengthening ties between the two countries.
Prime Minister Amarasuriya is also scheduled to meet Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during her visit to discuss key issues of mutual interest, including trade, education, and regional cooperation. This meeting is part of a series of high-level engagements aimed at deepening bilateral ties.
Visit to Hindu College: A return to her roots
A significant highlight of the visit was Prime Minister Amarasuriya's return to her alma mater, Hindu College under Delhi University, where she pursued a bachelor’s degree in sociology from 1991 to 1994. The campus was abuzz with excitement as students, faculty, and alumni gathered to welcome the distinguished alumna.
During her visit, she interacted with current students, reflecting on her time at the institution and expressing optimism about the future. She encouraged students to ask difficult questions and challenge assumptions, emphasizing that "education and empathy must go hand in hand."
Addressing the University of Delhi: Advocating for democratic reforms
Later in the day, Prime Minister Amarasuriya addressed students at the University of Delhi, calling for a transformation in political culture by removing corruption and nepotism. She urged citizens not to turn away from politics, stating, "Let's change what we don't like about politics... but don't reject politics, because without politics, you won't be able to change the world."
She also praised India’s progress in digital governance, describing it as an example for others to follow. Highlighting the importance of safeguarding democratic systems, she told students to defend it, stating, "Democracy is not a spectator's sport; it is hard work."
Prime Minister Amarasuriya's visit underscores Sri Lanka's commitment to strengthening its relationship with India. The discussions with Indian leaders focused on enhancing cooperation in education, capacity building, and digital governance. The leaders agreed to work closely to advance the bilateral partnership between the two nations, reflecting a shared commitment to regional stability and prosperity.