Speech of Hon’ble Lt. Governor at the Indo-Sri Lanka Economic Conference at IIC Delhi.

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  • High Commissioner Sri Lanka, Ms. Mahishini Colonne Ji,

  • Chairman & Fo unding Director, EG ROW Foundation, Dr. Arvind Virmani Ji,

  • CEO, EG ROW Foundation, Charan Singh Ji,

  • Joint Secretary (MEA), Ms. Aparna Ray Ji 

  • Distinguished Ambassadors, speakers, delegates from India and Sri Lanka, colleagues and guests

The relationship of India and Sri Lanka, is, a relationship, rooted not merely in geography, but in centuries of shared history, culture, commerce, and people-to-people ties.

 

For India, Sri Lanka is, not just a maritime neighbour in the Indian Ocean; it is a trusted partner, in our shared regional journey toward growth and prosperity. The India–Sri Lanka relationship, has steadily evolved from traditional trade linkages into a comprehensive economic partnership, encompassing cultural bond connectivity, energy, infrastructure, technology, tourism, education, and capacity building.

 

As Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji, has emphasized regional growth Sri Lanka is an indispensable partner, in shaping a secure and stable region.

 

Over the years, economic cooperation between our countries has deepened significantly. India remains one of Sri Lanka’s largest trading partners and among its foremost investors. The India–Sri Lanka Free Trade Agreement, one of India’s earliest bilateral FTAs, demonstrated, how regional integration can create mutual opportunities, expand markets, and strengthen supply chains.

 

Today, our partnership is entering a new phase — one that is future-oriented and driven by sustainability, innovationl.

 

India’s approach toward Sri Lanka’s economic development has consistently been guided by the principles of partnership and mutual respect. Whether in the field of infrastructure, energy, digital public infrastructure, housing, railway modernization, renewable energy, India has stood by Sri Lanka as a reliable friend and first responder.

 

At the same time, India recognizes that Sri Lanka occupies a strategic and economically significant position in the Indian Ocean region. Enhanced connectivity, port-led development can transform our shared neighbourhood into a vibrant economic corridor linking South Asia with Southeast Asia and beyond.

 

There is immense untapped potential before us.

Our two countries can further collaborate in areas such as:

  • Renewable energy;

  • Digital economy;

  • Tourism;

  • Pharmaceutical and healthcare cooperation;

  • Maritime trade and logistics;

  • Education

  • Skill Development and Start up Ecosystems

 

Economic ties are strongest when they benefit ordinary citizens. Therefore, our collective objective must be inclusive growth — creating jobs, enhancing connectivity, encouraging entrepreneurship, and improving quality of life for people in both countries.

 

In an increasingly uncertain global economic environment, regional cooperation is no longer optional; it is essential. India and Sri Lanka together can demonstrate how neighbours, bound by trust and civilizational ties, can build resilient and forward-looking economic partnerships.

 

Let us continue to invest not only in trade and infrastructure, but also in confidence, understanding, and long-term cooperation.

 

Guided by Prime Minister Modi’s vision of ‘Neighbourhood First’, India remains committed to a strong, stable and prosperous partnership with Sri Lanka for the benefit of the entire Indian Ocean region.” I conclude with the hope that the India–Sri Lanka partnership will continue to grow from strength to strength — guided by shared prosperity, mutual sensitivity, and a common vision for the future of the Indian Ocean region.

 

 

Thank you.

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