Indian External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar had a virtual meeting with Sri Lankan Finance Minister Basil Rajapaksa and assured steadfast support to Sri Lanka. The meeting ended a while ago.
He tweeted ,”Just concluded a detailed virtual meeting with Sri Lankan Finance Minister @RealBRajapaksa.
Reaffirmed that India will be a steadfast and reliable partner of Sri Lanka,”
Just concluded a detailed virtual meeting with Sri Lankan Finance Minister @RealBRajapaksa.
Reaffirmed that India will be a steadfast and reliable partner of Sri Lanka. pic.twitter.com/aYgKEpkSFy
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) January 15, 2022
Meanwhile, India, on Thursday, announced the extension of US$ 900 million foreign exchange support including the US$ 400 million currency swap.
We positively noted the extension of the USD 400 million swap facility and the deferred ACU settlement of USD 515.2 million. Discussed the early realisation of USD 1 billion term loan facility for essential commodities and of USD 500 million LoC for fuel purchase.
Assured that India will take up with other international partners’ initiatives to support Sri Lanka at this important juncture. Welcomed the progress on Trincomalee Tank Farm which will contribute to energy security.
Considered projects and investment plans by India that would strengthen Sri Lankan economy. Urged early release of Indian fishermen in Sri Lankan custody as a humanitarian gesture, Jaishankar further said.
In addition to the extension of US$ 4,900 million support, India and Sri Lanka are working out other pillars of financial cooperation agreed upon during Finance Minister Basil Rajapaksa’s visit to New Delhi last month, an informed source said.
External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar had tweeted that India would support Sri Lanka during these difficult times after the phone call with his counterpart Prof. G.L Peiris on January 6, 2022.
Chinese State Councillor and Foreign Minister WANG Yi has visited last week and he assures that China will continue to do its best to provide all the necessary help and support to Sri Lanka.
