From Ashoka to Accord: 2000-Year Arc of Diplomacy

Two nations, one epic bond—shaped by Buddha, battered by bullets, and now building a new era of cooperation

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Additionally, the ancient Indian epic, the Ramayana, narrates the story of Lord Rama constructing a bridge, known as Rama Setu or Adam's Bridge, from India to Sri Lanka to rescue his wife Sita from the demon king Ravana. This mythological connection underscores the deep historical ties and shared narratives between the two nations.

Colonial Era The colonial period saw both India and Sri Lanka under British rule, albeit with distinct administrative structures. India gained independence in 1947, followed by Sri Lanka (then Ceylon) in 1948. Post-independence, both nations sought to establish their identities and navigate the complexities of nation-building. The shared experience of colonialism and the subsequent quest for sovereignty further cemented their bilateral relations.

Post-Independence In the years following independence, India and Sri Lanka entered into several agreements to address mutual concerns and strengthen bilateral ties:

•Nehru-Kotelawala Pact (1954): This agreement addressed the status and future of people of Indian origin in Sri Lanka, particularly those brought by the British to work in plantations. India accepted, in principle, the repatriation of Indian populations in Sri Lanka, emphasizing voluntary repatriation for those opting for Indian citizenship.

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