Indian National Security Advisor Ajit Doval met with Sri Lankan Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena in Colombo on August 29. Doval highlighted the potential for enhancing economic cooperation between India and Sri Lanka, noting their complementary bilateral ties. He expressed interest in expanding collaboration, particularly in the energy sector.

Prime Minister Gunawardena identified the energy sector as a priority and thanked India for its support of alternative energy projects. He revealed plans to amend Ceylon Electricity Board regulations to encourage private sector involvement in electricity generation and distribution, potentially attracting Indian investments in solar and wind power.

Doval proposed that Sri Lanka could eventually export excess power to India, drawing parallels to Bhutan’s hydroelectric power exports. He also praised Sri Lanka's historical economic practices and acknowledged India's role in training Sri Lankan armed forces and public servants.

Doval was accompanied by a high-level delegation, including High Commissioner Santosh Jha and Additional Secretary Puneet Agrawal, while Sri Lankan officials included Secretary to the Prime Minister Anura Dissanayake and Advisor Sugeeswara Senadhira.