India expected to send positive message on debt during Jaishankar’s visit to Sri Lanka

External affairs Minister of Idia, S. Jaishankar’s visit to Colombo on Thursday will focus on supporting Sri Lanka in its current crisis government sources said adding that talks are ongoing in the field on energy security, food security, currency swap arrangement as well as talks about restructuring Sri Lanka’s debt. The two-day visit is expected to see some announcements.

“India is expected to give a positive response to Sri Lanka’s requirements in keeping with India’s support last year as well”, said a source citing India’s combined package of about $4 billion including loans, credit lines for the purchase of essentials, and a loan deferment through the Asia Clearing Union.

In addition, talks are expected on two possible MoUs – on the Trincomalee development project and the long pending plan for an across-strait Transmission line that would allow Sri Lanka access to India’s plans for an energy grid along with other countries like Nepal, Bhutan, and Bangladesh.

The source stressed that while assisting Sri Lanka with its current economic difficulties is a priority Mr.Jaishankar’s visit his first with six month old government in Colombo would see a comprehensive review of bilateral ties.