PM Modi announces 400 million dollar line of credit to Sri Lanka

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced a 400 million dollar Line of Credit of to Sri Lanka to boost the island nation's development.

In a joint press statement after meeting visiting Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa in Delhi yesterday, Mr Modi said that India will also extend a 50 million dollars Line of Credit to Sri Lanka to fight terrorism.

He said, strengthening mutual cooperation in dealing with terrorism was discussed in detail. He assured the Sri Lankan President of India's full assistance in taking his country on the path of rapid development.

Describing the meeting with Mr Rajapaksa as fruitful, the Prime Minister said, a strong and prosperous Sri Lanka is not only in the interest



of India but also in the interest of the entire Indian Ocean region.

Mr Modi said, India gives priority to its relations with Sri Lanka under its Neighbourhood First' Policy. He expressed confidence that the Sri Lankan Government will carry forward the process of reconciliation to fulfil the aspirations of the Tamils for equality, justice, peace and respect.

The Sri Lankan President said in his statement that the discussions were cordial and reassuring and a major focus area of the deliberations was on security cooperation. He said, they discussed the fishermen's issue in length.

This is Mr Gotabaya's first overseas visit since assuming office.