EAM S Jaishankar begins 2021 with the Sri Lanka visit

New Delhi, Jan 5: The External Affairs Minister is scheduled to have a 3-day long visit to Sri Lanka starting from Jan 5 to Jan 7, 2021. Dr. S Jaishankar's visit to Sri Lanka becomes the first high-level bilateral engagement for India in the year 2021. The visit is being arranged through the air-bubble, amid the covid pandemic and related travel restrictions in India and Sri Lanka.

 

During his visit, Dr S Jaishankar is scheduled to have bilateral meetings with President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa, and Foreign Minister Dinesh Gunawardena. The visit is expected to begin with a discussion with the Sri Lankan counterpart FM Dinesh Gunawardena and Sri Lankan leadership about the scope of bilateral relations between the two countries.

 

On account of beginning the new year with the Sri Lankan visit, the statement of the Ministry of External Affairs states that "At the invitation of Foreign Minister of Sri Lanka Dinesh Gunawardena, External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar will pay a visit to Sri Lanka from Jan 5 to Jan 7, 2021." The statement also read that, "As such, it signifies the priority both countries attach to strengthen their close and cordial relations in all spheres of mutual interest."

 

 

Another key focus during the visit will be the Covid-19 vaccine. India has assured that it will be providing the Covid-19 vaccine to its neighbours on priority. Over the weekend India's drug regulator has also given approval to vaccines: Covishield and Covaxin for use.

 

Both countries share a broad understanding on major issues of international interest. In recent years, significant progress in implementation of developmental assistance projects for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and disadvantaged sections of the population in Sri Lanka has helped further cement the bonds of friendship between the two countries.