Colombo, November 23 (Firstpost) – President Ranil Wickremesinghe acknowledged the possibility of Sri Lanka becoming a battleground in the power struggle between India and China. However, he reassured that Sri Lanka will not compromise the security of its South Asian neighbor.
During an exclusive interview with Firstpost, Wickremesinghe recalled the major issue of Indian troops in Sri Lankan politics back in 1988. Despite recent concerns over Chinese ‘spy ships’ visiting Sri Lankan ports, the President emphasized that it would not have a negative impact on bilateral ties.
Understanding India’s security concerns, Wickremesinghe stated that Sri Lanka will not take any actions that would harm India’s security. He further highlighted that Sri Lanka is an independent country and questioned why their friendship should depend on such issues.
Expressing gratitude towards India for their assistance during last year’s economic crisis, Wickremesinghe anticipated a significant boost in bilateral relations. He disclosed that India is planning substantial investments in Sri Lanka, including a major project in Colombo’s south port. The President credited his meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a catalyst for strengthening the relationship between the two nations.
While India recently faced a setback in the Maldives when the new President, Mohamed Muizzu, requested the Indian government to withdraw its military presence, Wickremesinghe advised India to focus on building ties with the current administration in the Maldives rather than excessively worrying about the issue. He emphasized that the Maldives requires India’s assistance.
However, Wickremesinghe criticized the I.
