In a diplomatic reassurance, Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Ali Sabry pledged his country’s commitment to protecting India’s national security interests. Speaking on Monday, Sabry emphasized Colombo’s responsibility as a neighbor to safeguard India’s security, asserting that no actions detrimental to Indian interests would be tolerated.
Addressing concerns over visits by Chinese research vessels to Sri Lanka, Sabry emphasized transparency in international relations. “We would like to work with all countries, but any reasonable concerns regarding Indian security will be taken into note,” Sabry stated in an interview with ANI.
Acknowledging India’s significance as China’s largest trading partner, Sabry underscored Sri Lanka’s desire for balanced relations without compromising on others’ interests. “As a responsible neighbor and civilizational partner, we will not undertake anything that would harm the legitimate security concerns of India,” he affirmed.
Regarding India’s ongoing elections, Sabry described them as a celebration of democracy, expressing Sri Lanka’s commitment to working with India regardless of the electoral outcome. “We will work with any outcome the Indian public decides,” he added.
The reassurance comes in response to India’s previous security concerns over Chinese research vessels docking in Sri Lanka. Last year, the docking of a Chinese research ship at Sri Lanka’s Hambantota Port raised alarms in India, as the vessel was capable of mapping the ocean bed, a critical aspect for anti-submarine operations of the Chinese Navy.
Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar reiterated India’s vigilance regarding developments impacting its security. Speaking at a joint press conference, Jaishankar emphasized India’s keen interest in regional affairs, particularly those affecting its security.
Sabry’s statements underscore Sri Lanka’s commitment to maintaining cordial relations with India while addressing regional security concerns in a transparent manner.
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