Colombo, December 25: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has reaffirmed India’s unwavering commitment to assisting Sri Lanka in its recovery from the devastation caused by Cyclone Dhatua. In a special letter addressed to President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, Modi announced that External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar would visit Colombo to discuss relief and rehabilitation measures.

Highlighting India’s swift response under its “Neighbourhood First” policy and its commitment as a first responder, Modi noted that “Operation Sagar Bandhu” has already delivered emergency assistance through Indian naval ships, aircraft and helicopters. Special teams were deployed to support search and rescue operations, provide medical aid, and restore critical connectivity and communication networks.

“Operation Sagar Bandhu touched many lives in Sri Lanka and was widely seen as an expression of our deep bonds,” Modi wrote, assuring that India would stand “shoulder to shoulder” with Sri Lanka in rebuilding lives and strengthening resilience.

Expressing confidence in Sri Lanka’s ability to overcome challenges, Modi concluded that Sri Lanka would rise again—stronger than before—and that throughout this journey, as in its national development and progress, Sri Lanka would always find India by its side.