Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman was warmly received upon her arrival at Colombo airport for a three-day official visit, highlighting the enduring historical and cultural bonds between India and Sri Lanka. During her visit, Minister Sitharaman engaged in crucial meetings with religious leaders and government officials, fostering goodwill and further cementing the strong and cordial relations between the two neighboring nations.

In a meeting during her visit, Finance Minister Sitharaman had the privilege of sitting down with Most Venerable Warakagoda Sri Gnanarathana, the Chief Prelate of Asgiriya in Kandy. The discussions revolved around the close and harmonious relationship between India and Sri Lanka and the unwavering support provided by India during Sri Lanka's economic challenges. The meeting was a testament to the deep and abiding ties between the two countries.

Minister Sitharaman took the opportunity to underscore her commitment to strengthening friendly relations by participating in the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the Solar Electrification of Religious Places in Sri Lanka. Valued at ₹82.40 crore, this project is part of India's grant assistance program, totaling ₹107.47 crore, dedicated to promoting Buddhist ties between the two nations.

Most Venerable Warakagoda Sri Gnanarathana expressed his heartfelt gratitude for the Solar Project, acknowledging its paramount importance in addressing Sri Lanka's energy requirements. He deemed this initiative timely and supportive, emphasizing its contribution to the well-being of Sri Lanka.

In another significant meeting, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman paid a visit to Most Venerable Thibbatuwawe Sri Siddhartha Sumangala Thero, the Chief Prelate of Malwatte. Their discussions revolved around the people-to-people connection and touched upon the visits of Indian Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi to Sri Lanka. Most Venerable Thibbatuwawe Sri Siddhartha Sumangala Thero recognized the deep cultural ties and shared heritage between the two nations. He also expressed his gratitude for India's economic assistance during times of crisis, emphasizing India's role as a steadfast and trusted friend of Sri Lanka.