Sri Lankan president meets Modi as China looms large over South Asia

In September 2024, Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake made his first international visit to India, where he engaged in discussions with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The visit focused on enhancing bilateral relations due to rising concerns regarding China's growing influence in the region. President Dissanayake emphasized Sri Lanka's commitment to ensuring the country would not be used in any way that could harm Indian interests. Modi welcomed the commitment and highlighted plans for future cooperation, including initiatives like establishing an electricity grid connection and a multi-product petroleum pipeline between India and Sri Lanka. The backdrop of this visit is marked by China's considerable financial investments and infrastructure loans extended to Sri Lanka over the years. While Beijing has historically been viewed as having significant leverage in the country, the recent economic collapse that Sri Lanka experienced in 2022 shifted the dynamics. India seized the opportunity to deepen its ties with Sri Lanka by providing extensive financial and humanitarian assistance, including food, fuel, and medical supplies. At the press briefing following their meeting, both leaders expressed optimism regarding future collaborations. Modi's government aims to strengthen economic and defense associations with Sri Lanka, establishing a buffer against China's growing presence in the Indian Ocean region. This situation reflects broader geopolitical tensions, suggesting a significant shift in alliances as smaller nations navigate between larger powers. Overall, the visit by President Dissanayake serves as a crucial step for Sri Lanka to reaffirm its support for India and reinforce its economic and strategic partnership with New Delhi. The developments also highlight the necessity for regional countries to balance relationships amid a complex and evolving international landscape, particularly concerning the interplay between India and China.