New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched ferry service between Nagapattinam in India and Kankesanthurai in Sri Lanka. On this occasion, he said, India and Sri Lanka are starting a new chapter in diplomatic and economic relations. The ferry service brings alive all the historical and cultural connections. He said, partnership for progress and development is one of the strongest pillars of India-Sri Lanka bilateral relations.
During the visit of Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe, PM Modi informed that a vision document for economic partnership with the central theme of connectivity was jointly adopted. PM Modi said, connectivity is not just about bringing two cities closer. It brings our countries closer, our people closer and our hearts closer. He said the connectivity enhances trade, tourism and people-to-people ties, while also creating new opportunities for the youth of both the countries. He said India and Sri Lanka cooperate closely in many areas such as fin-tech and energy.
Noting that digital payments have become a mass movement and a way of life in India because of UPI, the PM pointed out that both the governments are working on fin-tech sector connectivity. They also discussed connecting energy grids between the two countries to enhance energy security and reliability as energy security is critical to the development journey of both India and Sri Lanka. PM Modi on Saturday expressed his gratitude to the Sri Lankan President, Government and people of Sri Lanka for the successful launch of the ferry service.
He also talked about working towards resuming the ferry service between Rameshwaram and Talaimannar. India is committed to working closely with Sri Lanka to further strengthen our bilateral relations for the mutual benefit of their people, the Prime Minister concluded.
