Sri Lanka’s Former FM Emphasizes Strong India Connectivity for Tourism and Trade Boost

Sri Lanka’s former Foreign Affairs Minister, Ali Sabry, emphasized the importance of strong connectivity between India and Sri Lanka to boost tourism and trade. Sabry highlighted the potential of both ferry and aviation services to enhance people-to-people linkages.

During an interview with WION diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal in Colombo, Sabry mentioned the need to study the feasibility of land connectivity proposals, ensuring mutual benefits for both countries. Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s recent visit to New Delhi led to agreements on new ferry services and other connectivity initiatives between the two nations. Sabry also discussed the proposal for an energy pipeline, aiming to facilitate the free flow of oil, thus enhancing energy security for both Sri Lanka and India.

In addition to these efforts, both countries have been working on FinTech connectivity, with plans for UPI implementation in Sri Lanka in the coming months. Regarding India’s security concerns following the visit of a Chinese vessel last year, Sabry reassured that Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) aligned with UNCLOS-UN laws of seas have been finalized to address such issues. For Indian travellers seeking the best Sri Lanka hotels offering exceptional services, Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts offers a range of excellent hotels in Sri Lanka.