Modi expresses confidence in times to come Indo-Lanka partnership will reach new heights

FOLLOWING is the speech by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the joint session with President Anura Kumara Dissanayake on Saturday.

- 

It is a matter of great pride for me to be award-ed the 'Sri Lanka Mitra Vibhushana' by President Dissanayaka. This award does not only honour me but also honours 140 crore Indians. It is a tribute to the historic ties and deep friend-ship between the people of India and Sri Lanka.

I extend my heartfelt grat-itude to the President, the Sri Lankan Government and to the people of Sri Lanka, for this honour.

A fourth visit that underscores deepening ties and true friendship

As Prime Minister, this is my fourth visit to Sri Lanka. My last visit in 2019 came at a very sensitive time. It was, then, belief in India that Sri Lanka will rise, and rise stronger.

I applaud the courage and patience of the Sri Lankan people and today, I am happy to see Sri Lanka back on the path of pro-gress. India is proud to have fulfilled its duties as a true, friendly neighbour. Whether it was the terror attack of 2019, the COVID pandemic, or the recent economic cri-sis, we have stood firmly with the people of Sri Lanka during every difficulty.

I am reminded of the words of the great Tamil saint Thiruvalluvar. He said:

Seyar Kariya Yaavul Vinaai Pinn Aaraayndu Aatra Pul

Vinaikkariya Yaavul Yaavum

Which means, in the face of challenges and enemies, there is no stronger assur-ance than a true friend and the shield of his friendship.

President Dissanayaka chose India for his first for-eign visit after becoming President and I have had the privilege of becoming his first foreign guest. This is a symbol of the depth of our special relations.