On Sunday Sri Lanka launched an inter-city train service, using the Diesel Multiple Units procured from India. The inauguration coincided with Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi’s visit to the island. The event highlighted New Delhi's development partnership with the Sri Lanka which include infrastructure development and country-wide focus.

The train Mount Lavinia-KKS Train service will criss-cross the island nation. It will connect the capital city of Colombo with Kankesanthurai on the northern tip of the Jaffna Peninsula, which has a Tamil-majority population.

“Powering Sri Lanka railway infrastructure forward!! The train service launched today to the Northern Province highlights 2 key pillars of Flag of India’s development partnership with #lka – infrastructure development and country-wide focus,” the Indian High Commission in Sri Lanka tweeted.

The launch ceremony was attended by Sri Lankan Transport Minister Pavithra Wanniarachchi and India’s Deputy High Commissioner Vinod K Jacob.

“Another significant landmark in India-Sri Lanka ties! Hon’ble Minister @pavithrawannia1 inaugurated the AC Diesel Multiple Unit (DMU) supplied by @RITESLimited under an Indian credit line & launched the train service from Mt.Lavinia to KKS. She undertook the inaugural ride & was welcomed,” the Indian mission said in another tweet.

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