India pledges urgent support for Sri Lanka after devastating cyclone
India has once again stepped up as a reliable neighbor during times of crisis. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar arrived in Colombo on Tuesday, marking a significant S Jaishankar Sri Lanka Visit aimed at accelerating recovery efforts following the devastation of Cyclone Ditwah. The visit underscores New Delhi’s commitment to standing by its maritime neighbor as it navigates the aftermath of a severe natural disaster.
During his stay, Jaishankar met with several Sri Lankan Tamil leaders to discuss the progress of reconstruction. He emphasized that India remains dedicated to the rehabilitation of affected communities. On social media platform X, the minister reiterated that India's focus is firmly on post-cyclone rebuilding efforts, ensuring that those most impacted receive the necessary support to rebuild their lives.
In a high-level meeting with Sri Lanka's Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath, Jaishankar highlighted the urgency of the situation. He noted that the Indian government is working on a streamlined coordination mechanism to ensure that Cyclone Ditwah relief materials and aid reach the island nation in the shortest possible time. India recognizes that the cyclone hit at a particularly vulnerable time, just as Sri Lanka was showing signs of recovery from its 2022 economic crisis.
Beyond immediate disaster relief, the discussions branched into long-term economic stability. Jaishankar assured that India would continue to promote Sri Lanka as a primary travel destination for Indian tourists. Boosting tourism and encouraging increased Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) from India are seen as vital pillars for the island’s economic resilience.
Closing his remarks, Jaishankar expressed deep confidence in the spirit of the Sri Lankan people. He noted that while the current challenges are significant, the "Neighborhood First" policy ensures that India stands firmly with Sri Lanka. This visit serves as a testament to the enduring India-Sri Lanka relations, focusing not just on diplomacy, but on the human aspect of disaster recovery and economic brotherhood.
