India urges Sri Lanka to conduct PC polls “at the earliest”
India has urged Sri Lanka to conduct the long-delayed Provincial Council elections “at the earliest” and fully implement constitutional provisions to address the aspirations of the Tamil people, during Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri’s official visit to Colombo. According to a statement issued by India’s Ministry of External Affairs, Misri conveyed the position during discussions […]
Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri has urged Sri Lanka to hold the long-delayed Provincial Council elections "at the earliest," during his official visit to Colombo. The Foreign Secretary made this request during discussions with Sri Lankan leaders, according to a statement from India’s Ministry of External Affairs.
Misri also brought up concerns about fishermen detained in Sri Lanka and sought cooperation from Colombo for the early release of these fishermen and their fishing boats. The Indian Foreign Ministry added that while bilateral efforts continue, a humanitarian approach should guide discussions, considering the livelihood needs of fishing communities.
Misri highlighted ongoing cooperation between the two countries, including India’s assistance for Sri Lanka’s recovery from Cyclone Ditwa and collaboration in the energy sector. The two sides also discussed accelerating the implementation of India-supported projects, such as the Unique Digital Identity initiative, Trincomalee's development as an energy hub, and the rehabilitation and modernization of the Kankesanthurai harbour in Jaffna.
Meanwhile, Sri Lanka's President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and Misri focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation in technology, energy, and trade during their discussions. The President's Media Division did not refer to the Provincial Council elections in their statement, but President Dissanayake sought India's support and full cooperation in combating drug trafficking. He stressed the importance of regional cooperation in addressing climate change challenges.
Written by urgent.news from The Island Sri Lanka's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
