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Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to Sri Lanka, his first since 2019, transcends mere diplomatic pleasantries, underscoring the deepening relationship between the two nations. The fact that Colombo, now under the governance of the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP)-led National People’s Power (NPP) regime, demonstrably prioritizes the enhancement of ties with New Delhi speaks volumes about the evolving geopolitical landscape. The conferment of Sri Lanka’s highest honor for foreign leaders upon Mr. Modi, coupled with the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on defense cooperation – a groundbreaking achievement in bilateral relations – serves as irrefutable evidence of this commitment. The ascension of the JVP to power, following Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s victory in the presidential election in September 2024 and the subsequent resounding parliamentary election victory of the NPP two months later, initially sparked speculation that the relationship with India would be relegated to a strictly formal, if not overtly cold, status. This apprehension stemmed from the JVP’s historically perceived anti-India stance. Concerns were also raised regarding Colombo's potential insensitivity towards New Delhi's legitimate security concerns. However, it is crucial to acknowledge that Mr. Dissanayake has consistently reaffirmed Sri Lanka’s long-held position, unequivocally stating that his country would not permit its territory to be utilized in any manner that could compromise India’s security or undermine regional stability. This assurance, while welcome, must be translated into tangible actions to fully allay India’s anxieties. Mr. Modi aptly articulated the underlying rationale for the defense MoU, emphasizing the interconnectedness and co-dependence of the security interests of both nations. While the MoU formalizes certain pre-existing arrangements in the sphere of defense cooperation at a bilateral level, the onus now rests upon the NPP regime to convincingly demonstrate Sri Lanka's unwavering commitment to genuine defense cooperation. This entails not only adherence to the letter of the agreement but also a proactive and transparent approach to addressing India's security concerns. The historical context, however, casts a long shadow. Sri Lanka is undoubtedly cognizant of the fact that a 1987 understanding, which explicitly prohibited the utilization of Trincomalee or any other Sri Lankan port for military purposes by a third country against India, has failed to completely dispel India’s persistent anxieties. Building trust and fostering a robust, mutually beneficial security partnership will necessitate a sustained and concerted effort from both sides.
The contentious issue of fishing rights in the Palk Bay, a matter of significant importance to the state of Tamil Nadu in India, remains a persistent thorn in bilateral relations. The fact that detailed discussions were held on this matter during Mr. Modi’s visit is a positive development. However, Mr. Modi's visit should serve as a catalyst for a comprehensive and sustained dialogue between the fishing communities of both countries, a dialogue that is actively facilitated and overseen by government officials from both sides. The recent meeting between fishers from both sides of the Palk Bay, during which they exchanged their perspectives, represents a promising initial step. However, for this meeting to translate into meaningful progress, it must be followed by another round of talks, characterized by open communication and a willingness to compromise. A flexible and pragmatic approach, one that acknowledges the legitimate concerns and aspirations of both fishing communities, is essential to forging a lasting and equitable solution to this long-standing dispute. Such a solution must not only address the immediate concerns of livelihoods and resource management but also incorporate mechanisms for sustainable fishing practices and the conservation of the marine ecosystem. Furthermore, the solution should be grounded in mutual respect and understanding, fostering a sense of shared responsibility for the stewardship of the Palk Bay's resources.
Another noteworthy outcome of Mr. Modi’s visit was the interaction between Tamil political parties and the Prime Minister. In their meeting, these parties conveyed their recognition of the enduring significance of the Indo-Lanka Accord of 1987 as a foundational framework for achieving a lasting political settlement for the Tamil people in Sri Lanka. They also emphasized the importance of India’s continued “legitimate involvement” in this process. It is important to acknowledge that the Indo-Lanka Accord has faced criticism, even within Sri Lanka, with some arguing that many parties had not fully embraced the Accord, which paved the way for the establishment of provincial councils as a crucial measure of devolution of power. Despite these criticisms, the Accord remains a significant milestone in the history of India-Sri Lanka relations and continues to hold relevance in the ongoing pursuit of a political solution for the Tamil community. New Delhi, with its capacity to provide substantial economic assistance for the reconstruction and development of the war-torn Northern and Eastern provinces of Sri Lanka, should adopt the role of a dispassionate observer and a constructive facilitator, urging all stakeholders to pursue democratic means to arrive at a consensus that is both just and sustainable. This entails promoting inclusive dialogue, fostering reconciliation, and ensuring the protection of the rights and interests of all communities in Sri Lanka. India's role should be one of encouraging a process that is owned and driven by the Sri Lankan people themselves, while simultaneously providing the necessary support and guidance to help them achieve a peaceful and prosperous future.
Source: Dispelling concerns: on Modi visit and India-Sri Lanka ties