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oint energy initiatives between India and Sri Lanka, including the upcoming Sampur solar power plant, were the focal point of discussions between President Ranil Wickremesinghe and Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Thursday.
Wickremesinghe and Jaishankar explored strategies to enhance energy connectivity and advance the renewable energy sector, according to a statement from the president’s media division.
“The discussions paid significant attention to plans for LNG supply, a proposed petroleum pipeline linking the two nations, and progressing oil and gas exploration projects. It was also announced that the construction of the Sampur Solar Power Plant will begin in July 2024.”
The visit occurs amidst delays in major Indian projects, including land, oil, and gas pipelines, grid connectivity agreements, Adani’s wind power plant projects currently entangled in legal issues, and port and investment zone projects in Trincomalee.
The talks also covered Indian-supported projects aimed at developing Trincomalee, expanding the Kankasanthurai port, and the ongoing upgrades to Jaffna and Colombo Airports. Additionally, the unique digital identity card project is being expedited.
The efficiency of Indian-backed projects targeting Sri Lanka’s liquid milk industry and fertilizer production was also reviewed.
Over the past two decades, Sri Lankan leaders have faced pressure from India due to increasing Chinese influence in the country, which is seen as a security threat to India, according to analysts.
