PM Modi highlights import of Lanka Prez Rajapaksa making India his 1st overseas visit

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa on Friday morning, during latter's first State visit since becoming President of Sri Lanka a few weeks ago. Rajapaksa arrived in New Delhi on Thursday.

RE: Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa Gets Ceremonial Welcome At Rashtrapati Bhavan

'Happy to receive President Rajapaksa'

After meeting, Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted, "Happy to receive Gotabaya Rajapaksa on his first overseas visit as President of Sri Lanka. His visit is a testimony to time-tested ties between India and Sri Lanka and will help strengn our bonds as well as energise our partnership."

On Friday morning, EAM S Jaishankar met with President Rajapaksa for a meeting and after meeting, latter received a ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan, which included a 21-gun salute. He also delivered greetings after welcome, where he thanked President Kovind and PM Modi for welcome and invite to India. He also said that he expected meeting and talks between two nations to rise to a higher level during his Presidency and that government work for benefit of people.  two leers are expected to deliver official remarks after meeting.

RE | Sri Lankan President Gotaya Rajapaksa Meets Jaishankar

President Rajapaksa also met National Security visor (NSA) Chief Ajit Doval on Friday morning.

PM Modi, during his congratulatory call to President Rajapaksa after latter assumed office, invited him to India for bilateral talks. One of topics of discussion is expected to be 'on  process of national reconciliation to arrive at a solution that meets aspirations of Tamil community for equality, justice, peace, and dignity.'

RE | Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa To Meet PM Modi And Hold Bilateral Talks