External Affairs Minister (EAM), Dr. S Jaishankar, has reaffirmed India's support to Sri Lanka amid the economic crisis the country faces, stating "blood is thicker than water". 

Notably, India was the first country to give its approval for debt restructuring which paves way for an IMF bailout for the country. 

"I can only say, it is very natural for India to step forward at this point," said EAM Jaishankar in the context of the economic challenges the country faces, explaining, that "blood is thicker than water. For us, it was natural at the moment of difficulty that we should see what we can do within our resources, within our capabilities, within our efforts, to stand by Sri Lanka in this very difficult time." 

The EAM expressed his confidence in Sri Lanka's ability to overcome its current economic challenges with the help of its "real friends."

"I have always believed and said so both in Colombo and other places, that you will come through this challenge, but it is important to have your real friends standing by you at this time," he said. 

He was speaking at an exhibition on Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa, marking the 75th anniversary of Indo-Lanka diplomatic relations. 

The exhibition, "Geoffrey Bawa: It is essential to be there," featured over 120 documents from the Bawa archives, including a section on unbuilt work and Bawa’s own photographs from his travels.

Jaishankar also mentioned that Sri Lanka is an integral part of India's "neighbourhood first policy" and its "SAGAR policy." 

"We are advancing, including flights between Chennai and Jaffna which have resumed, we are looking at more seamless travel between other forms between South India and Sri Lanka. For us, Sri Lanka is an essential partner in the region, and we will continue to stand by you in these difficult times", he added. 
 

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