COLOMBO: India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid homage to Sri Lanka's sacred Buddhist tree on Sunday before wrapping up a state visit during which he secured defence and energy deals. Modi offered flowers to the Sri Maha Bodhi, an object of worship and a symbol of sovereignty for the Buddhist-majority island, in the pilgrim city of Anuradhapura. "This visit has reaffirmed the deep cultural, spiritual and civilisational ties between our two nations," Modi said on social media.
Modi and Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake oversaw the signing of seven agreements including on defence and energy. Dissanayake rolled out the red carpet for Modi and conferred on him the country's highest civilian honour for "the deep personal friendship" shown to Sri Lanka. Modi's visit is seen as a strategic move to counter rival China's growing influence in the region. "We believe that our security interests are aligned," Modi said. Dissanayake said he had assured Modi that Sri Lankan territory "will not be allowed to be used by anyone to undermine India's security". — AFP
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