Amarasuriya's India Visit: Strengthening Ties
Sri Lankan Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya has recently arrived in New Delhi for a three-day visit, marking her first official trip to India since taking office in September. This visit is significant as it aims to enhance the relationship between India and Sri Lanka, which is deeply rooted in history and shared cultural values.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has indicated that Amarasuriya will engage with Indian political leaders to discuss various bilateral issues of mutual interest. Her visit follows Prime Minister Narendra Modi's trip to Sri Lanka earlier this year, highlighting the ongoing dialogue between the two nations.
Amarasuriya expressed her excitement about the visit, stating, “This will be my first official visit to India as Prime Minister of Sri Lanka. India and Sri Lanka are closely tied together by history, culture, and shared values.” She aims to strengthen cooperation across various sectors including trade, investment, education, and development.
What makes her visit even more special is her connection to India as an alumna of Hindu College at the University of Delhi. Amarasuriya completed her Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from 1991 to 1994, and the college has planned a series of events to welcome her back. The Principal, Anju Srivastava, expressed pride in Amarasuriya's achievements, calling it a homecoming for the esteemed alumna.
During her visit, Amarasuriya will unveil a new ethnographic lab in the sociology department of Hindu College, a gesture that symbolizes her commitment to education and social sciences. She plans to revisit “Classroom 27,” where she spent significant time attending classes, further emphasizing her connection to the institution.
The college is preparing to honor her with a ceremonial Guard of Honour by NCC cadets and a symbolic tree plantation, showcasing the warm hospitality of the Indian educational institution. Hindu College is renowned for its illustrious alumni, many of whom have ventured into politics, thus reflecting the college's significant role in shaping future leaders.
As Amarasuriya's visit unfolds, it promises to deepen the bonds between India and Sri Lanka, fostering collaboration and shared growth, while also celebrating the academic and cultural ties that bind the two nations.
