BJP National President JP Nadda met with Sri Lanka’s Opposition Leader, Sajith Premadasa, in New Delhi today as part of the “KNOW BJP” initiative.
During the meeting, Nadda underscored the growing partnership between India and Sri Lanka, highlighting its importance within Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “Neighbourhood First” policy. He elaborated on the BJP’s vision of inclusive governance and people-driven development, noting that the party’s close coordination with the government has enabled the effective implementation of welfare schemes across India.
Nadda also proposed enhancing ties between the BJP and Premadasa’s Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) to exchange organizational experiences and promote mutual understanding. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations based on shared heritage, democratic values, and mutual respect.
Vijay Chauthaiwale, In-charge of the BJP’s Foreign Affairs Department, was also present during the discussions.
Earlier, Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met with Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa in New Delhi and reiterated India’s continued support for Sri Lanka’s progress and development under the “Neighbourhood First” policy.
“Pleased to meet Leader of Opposition @sajithpremadasa of Sri Lanka. Discussed India-Sri Lanka relations and our Neighbourhood First policy. India will always be supportive of progress and development in Sri Lanka,” Jaishankar stated in a post on X after the meeting.
Premadasa also attended a talk at Sapru House organized by the Indian Council of World Affairs (ICWA), where he addressed key aspects of India–Sri Lanka bilateral relations, including the long-standing fishermen issue.
Calling the matter “very important,” Premadasa emphasized that both nations must work together to establish a fair and practical framework, guided by international law, to resolve the fishermen dispute in a cooperative and sustainable manner.
