In early April, amidst the lush greenery of Colombo’s Independence Square, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was greeted with a ceremonial welcome befitting a longstanding ally. Hosted by Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, the visit marked Modi’s fourth trip to the island nation since 2014—and his first since Dissanayake assumed office.

The grand ceremony, attended by Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya and top cabinet officials, was more than diplomatic formality; it was a reflection of a deep-rooted relationship between neighbors bound by history, culture, and shared aspirations.

A Rain-Soaked Reception, A Warm Embrace

Despite heavy downpours, hundreds of Sri Lankans and members of the Indian diaspora gathered in droves outside Bandaranaike International Airport and Modi’s hotel. Their umbrellas couldn’t hide their enthusiasm as they cheered and waved Indian flags in celebration. Welcoming Modi at the airport were key Sri Lankan ministers, including Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath and Health Minister Nalinda Jayatissa, among others.

“Landed in Colombo. Grateful to the ministers and dignitaries who welcomed me at the airport. Looking forward to the programmes in Sri Lanka,” the Prime Minister posted on X shortly after his arrival.

Modi’s visit followed his participation in the 6th BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok. The invitation was personally extended by President Dissanayake during his official trip to India in December 2024—a visit Sri Lanka has since called a “watershed moment” in its relationship with India.

Diplomatic Firsts and Deepening Ties

Notably, PM Modi became the first foreign leader to be officially hosted by President Dissanayake—a move that underscores the diplomatic weight of the visit.

Ahead of the trip, Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri highlighted the significance of the relationship.

“The India–Sri Lanka relationship is deeply rooted in civilisational links, shared history, religion, culture, and strong people-to-people ties. In the modern era, it has evolved into a close economic, cultural, and technical partnership,” Misri said. “Sri Lanka is an integral part of our ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy, and this relationship, built on mutual trust and goodwill, has stood the test of time.”

Misri also recalled India’s swift response during Sri Lanka’s 2022 economic crisis, describing the assistance as “a testament to India’s role as a dependable neighbour and first responder in the region.”