India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi has written to President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, reaffirming India’s commitment to support Sri Lanka’s relief, recovery and rehabilitation efforts following Cyclone Ditwah. The letter confirms that External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar has been sent as Special Envoy to discuss continued cooperation and a comprehensive assistance package.
The Special Letter addressed to President Anura Kumara Dissanayake by Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi
H.E. Anura Kumara Disanayaka
President of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka
Excellency,
At a time when your nation is recovering from the damage caused by Cyclone Ditwah, I am sending External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar as my Special Envoy to discuss how India can cooperate with Sri Lanka in relief and rehabilitation.
In line with our ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy and First Responder commitment, we undertook ‘Operation Sagar Bandhu’ to address the immediate challenges. Indian ships, aircraft and helicopters brought relief supplies and emergency materials. They supported your search and rescue efforts while specialized Indian teams were pressed into service to handle medical emergencies and restore critical connectivity and communications.We are glad that ‘Operation Sagar Bandhu’ touched many lives in Sri Lanka and was widely perceived as an expression of our deep bonding.
As Sri Lanka now shifts its attention to the next phase, I would like to assure you that India will extend all possible support as a trusted partner and a reliable friend. As in the past, we will stand shoulder to shoulder with you in rebuilding lives and ensuring resilience in Sri Lanka. In this context, I am pleased to inform you that India will provide a comprehensive assistance package. I have asked Minister Jaishankar to discuss with your Government how best this package can be implemented.
I am confident that Sri Lanka will rise again, stronger than ever before. In this journey, as in its national development and progress, Sri Lanka will always find India by its side.
Please accept, Excellency, the assurances of my highest consideration.
Narendra Modi
Prime Minister of India
