Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has met with Sri Lanka’s Leader of the Opposition and Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) leader Sajith Premadasa in Colombo, during his official state visit to the island.

Modi said he appreciated Premadasa’s personal contribution and commitment to strengthening Indo-Lanka friendship. 

“Glad to meet Sri Lanka’s Leader of the Opposition, Mr. Sajith Premadasa. Appreciated his personal contribution and commitment to strengthening India-Sri Lanka friendship.” 

“Our special partnership receives support in Sri Lanka cutting across party lines. Our cooperation and robust development partnership are guided by the welfare of the people of our two countries,” the Indian PM posted on ‘X’.

Opposition Leader Premadasa said Sri Lanka and India have the chance to shape a future of shared ascent, “where growth is not just measured in trade, but in the wellbeing of our people.” The SJB leader also said he is grateful for India’s unwavering support during Sri Lanka’s most difficult times.

“Honoured to have met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a moment that calls for more than economic cooperation, it calls for a deeper partnership between our nations. Sri Lanka and India have the chance to shape a future of Shared Ascent, where growth is not just measured in trade, but in the wellbeing of our people. Grateful for India’s unwavering support during Sri Lanka’s most difficult times,” he posted on ‘X’ after the meeting.

Modi, who is on a three-day visit to Sri Lanka, held bilateral discussions with Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake in Colombo this morning (5). He also met a delegation of Tamil political party representatives in Colombo.