The Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, Jaganmohan Reddy, met with the Governor of Sri Lanka’s Eastern Province, Senthil Thondaman, in a bid to bolster bilateral ties between the two regions.
Among the topics discussed, the highlight was Sri Lanka’s request for the construction of a dedicated temple in Sri Lanka for Tirupati Tirumala, the revered temple in Tirumala, Andhra Pradesh.
Recognizing the challenges faced by elderly Sri Lankan devotees who find it difficult to travel to Tirupati, the Governor expressed the need for a temple that would bring Tirupati’s divine blessings closer to their homes. Governor Senthil Thondaman emphasized the convenience it would offer to the devotees in Sri Lanka and how it would enhance their spiritual experience.
The meeting also encompassed discussions on strengthening economic ties between the two regions. Senthil Thondaman urged the Andhra Pradesh state government to consider the establishment of a sugarcane and chili farming initiative, as well as a pharmaceutical manufacturing company.
Senthil Thondaman also requested India’s support to promote the Board of Investment (BOI) Garment Park and encourage investors to set up an industrial park at Trincomalee port.
