External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has voiced optimism for a reconciliation process that caters to the aspirations of Sri Lanka's minority Tamil community, ensuring equality, justice, and self-respect. During a video message to members of the India-Sri Lanka Parliamentary Friendship Association, Jaishankar emphasized the significance of implementing the 13th Amendment to the Constitution as a means to achieve this objective.

In his communication, Jaishankar reiterated India's steadfast backing for the preservation of Sri Lanka's multi-ethnic, multi-lingual, and multi-religious identity. Expressing a forward-looking perspective, he conveyed hopes for a reconciliation process that addresses the Tamil community's yearning for fairness, justice, and self-respect, all within the framework of a united and prosperous Sri Lanka.

Jaishankar specifically emphasized the importance of meaningful power devolution as outlined in the 13th Amendment (13A) to the Constitution. He also highlighted the early organization of Provincial Council elections as measures conducive to realizing these objectives. This perspective was relayed via an official statement by the Indian High Commission in Colombo.

The 13A serves as a provision for the devolution of power to Sri Lanka's Tamil community. This has been an ongoing point of emphasis from India, urging Sri Lanka to put the 13A into effect, a provision introduced subsequent to the Indo-Sri Lankan agreement of 1987.

Within the context of bilateral relations, Jaishankar delved into India's constructive contributions to Sri Lanka's development, stability, and prosperity. He underlined the significance of geographical proximity and shared democratic values as the foundation for these contributions, strengthening ties between the two nations.

“He highlighted the swift and substantial response by India to the economic challenges faced by Sri Lanka over the past year, exemplifying India's commitment to the ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy. EAM emphasised that the financial assistance of approximately USD 4 billion extended by India was unprecedented in both magnitude and swiftness, surpassing the response of international institutions and bilateral partners,” the statement said.

The economic turmoil in Sri Lanka, triggered by a shortage of foreign exchange reserves, led to widespread public protests, ultimately resulting in the removal of former President Gotabaya Rajapaksa from office.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar delved into India's perspective on fostering lasting and sustainable solutions. He specifically highlighted collaborative endeavors aimed at addressing Sri Lanka's energy demands, including grid connectivity and the establishment of a Petroleum, Oil, and Lubricants (POL) pipeline.

In addition, Jaishankar underscored the potential of renewable energy sources and the promotion of regional economic activities, notably the Trincomalee hub, as avenues for mutual advancement.

Regarding regional security, Jaishankar reiterated India's commitment to the "Security and Growth for All in the Region" (SAGAR) approach. This commitment is substantiated through participation in forums such as the Colombo Security Conclave, the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA), and the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC), according to an official statement.

The address by Jaishankar served as a "reminder of the enduring friendship between India and Sri Lanka and reinvigorated the commitment to strengthen ties for the mutual benefit of both nations and the broader region," the high commission said.

Image source: TOI