India says it supports an early political solution in Sri Lanka through democratic means and values, and a constitutional framework.
The spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India at a media briefing held yesterday said India has reiterated that it will continue to stand with the people of Sri Lanka as they seek to realize their aspirations for prosperity and progress through democratic means and values as well as established institutions and a constitutional framework.
India looks forward to an early solution to the situation related to the government and its leadership in Sri Lanka, while it will support the people of Sri Lanka in all possible ways in their endeavor to find a way forward.
The commitment India has demonstrated in helping the Sri Lankan people, to address the challenges arising out of the current situation in Sri Lanka underlines India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy as well as the SAGAR – Security and Growth for All in the Region – vision.
Moving forward, India’s support and solidarity with the people of Sri Lanka will continue, the spokesperson added.
The Foreign Ministry spokesperson also noted that India responded with urgency to assist the people of Sri Lanka in overcoming their economic hardships and emphasized that India expeditiously finalized and delivered assistance as well as support worth about US$ 3.8 billion in 2022.
Such assistance has been in the form of currency swaps, deferment of repayment of Sri Lanka’s liabilities to the Reserve Bank of India under the Asian Clearing Union mechanism, and credit assistance of more than US$ 1.5 billion for fuel, food, medicines, fertilizers, and other essential commodities.
India also categorically denied having any role in facilitating the departure or travel of former President Gotabaya Rajapaksa from Sri Lanka, the spokesperson added.
Meanwhile, the US Embassy in Colombo has urged all parties in Sri Lanka to work together, ensure the rule of law is upheld, and find solutions to the economic crisis.
US Ambassador to Sri Lanka Julie Chung said the US remains committed to the democratic aspirations of the Sri Lankan people. (NewsWire)