Prime Ministers of India and Sri Lanka discuss fishermen issue

The Prime Ministers of India and Sri Lanka discussed the fishermen issue and other areas related to the bilateral relations between both countries.

Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya met the Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, Friday 17 October 2025 in New Delhi during her official visit to India.

The discussions focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation, with particular attention to education reforms and development priorities.

Prime Minister Modi extended a warm welcome to Dr. Amarasuriya and appreciated her visit which adds fresh momentum to bilateral relations and the multi-faceted partnership that prevails between the two countries.

Prime Minister Amarasuriya shared with Prime Minister Modi, details of her poignant and inspiring visit to Hindu College, University of Delhi, where she had been a student on an ICCR scholarship in the early 1990s.

She also shared with the Prime Minister, the highlights of her visit to a model school in Delhi earlier in the day as a meaningful opportunity to observe innovative education practices.

Prime Minister Modi expressed support for Sri Lanka’s education reform agenda, and Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya shared Sri Lanka’s ongoing efforts to create an inclusive and equitable education system addressing challenges faced by youth, especially school dropouts emphasising on the increasing need to also address social issues faced by male students in this regard.

The two Prime Ministers also discussed matters pertaining to the welfare of fishermen in both countries, and Dr Amarasuriya emphasized the importance of protecting the livelihoods and safety of fishermen on both sides.

Prime Minister Modi reaffirmed India’s commitment to work together in partnership in the shared development journey of the two countries and reiterated support to Sri Lanka in advancing its Unique Digital ID initiative and strengthening digital governance. He also reiterated India’s continued support for development of the Sacred City Complex in Anuradhapura.

Prime Minister Amarasuriya stated that she conveys to Prime Minister Modi, the warm wishes of President Anura Kumara Disanayaka especially in the context of the auspicious festive season of Diwali.