PM Modi Receives Historic Ceremonial Welcome in Sri Lanka, Signaling Strengthening Bilateral Ties

Colombo | April 5, 2025 — In a landmark gesture symbolizing the growing warmth between India and Sri Lanka, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was accorded an unprecedented ceremonial welcome at Colombo’s iconic Independence Square on Saturday. This marks the first time Sri Lanka has extended such an honour to a visiting foreign leader, underscoring the strategic and diplomatic significance of the visit.

Prime Minister Modi, who arrived in Colombo for a three-day official visit, was received by Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake amid full state honours at the historic venue. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs highlighted the moment in a post on X (formerly Twitter), noting:

“A special welcome at Sri Lanka’s majestic Independence Square. PM Narendra Modi was welcomed by President Anura Dissanayake with a ceremonial reception. Bilateral discussions to foster a partnership for a shared future and mutual prosperity of our people lie ahead.”

The ceremonial reception sets the tone for what is expected to be a pivotal visit, aimed at enhancing regional cooperation and accelerating joint development initiatives between the two neighbours.

#WATCH | PM Narendra Modi received a ceremonial Guard of Honour in Colombo at the Independence Square.

PM Modi is on a three-day visit to Sri Lanka, which began yesterday after he attended the BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok.

(Source - ANI/DD) pic.twitter.com/GZaBnwhQ1l

— ANI (@ANI) April 5, 2025

According to official sources, talks between Prime Minister Modi and President Dissanayake are expected to yield approximately ten major outcomes, including the signing of seven key bilateral agreements across sectors such as trade, energy, infrastructure, and cultural exchange.

The visit underscores India’s continued emphasis on its “Neighbourhood First” policy and reflects Sri Lanka’s intent to deepen strategic and economic ties with its closest maritime neighbour.