In a First, Indian VP Visits Sri Lanka; Housing Project, Fishermen Dispute in Focus

CP Radhakrishnan on Sunday became the first Indian vice president to visit Sri Lanka, holding talks with President Anura Kumara Dissanayake on key bilateral issues, including India-backed housing projects and the long-standing fishermen dispute. Radhakrishnan, who arrived in Colombo on a two-day trip, discussed ongoing Indian-assisted projects, with particular focus on a USD 450 million assistance package linked to Cyclone Ditwah recovery efforts. The projects include reconstruction and rehabilitation in regions largely inhabited by the Indian-origin Tamil community.Accompanied by a 49-member delegation, he was received at Bandaranaike International Airport by Sri Lankan Sports Minister Sunil Kumara Gamage and other officials.During the meeting,

Radhakrishnan highlighted India’s “Neighbourhood First” policy and stressed expanding development cooperation.

“Both leaders held productive discussions on further deepening the multifaceted India–Sri Lanka ties, rooted in shared history, strong civilizational and people-to-people linkages," the VP said in a post. The two sides also addressed the sensitive fishermen issue, agreeing on the need for a humanitarian approach that takes into account the livelihoods of fishing communities in both countries. Disputes often arise in the Palk Strait, a resource-rich fishing area where fishermen are frequently detained for crossing maritime boundaries.Sri Lankan Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya hosted a luncheon for the visiting dignitary at Temple Trees. Radhakrishnan later met Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa, who said: “Sri Lanka and India are not just neighbours we are true partners with shared history, shared challenges, and a shared future. It is time we move with greater ambition, intent and trust, to reap the benefits of this partnership for all citizens.”As part of the visit, several memoranda of understanding are expected to be exchanged.

Radhakrishnan is also scheduled to address the Indian diaspora and virtually hand over homes built under India’s housing initiative. The project has delivered 50,000 houses to Tamil communities so far, with another 10,000 under construction.On Monday, he will travel to Nuwara Eliya to review project sites and interact with local residents. Officials said the visit is expected to further reinforce long-standing ties between the two nations.