On 19 May 2025, the Vivekananda International Foundation (VIF) organized a Roundtable on “Strengthening Partnership: PM Modi’s Visit and the Future of India-Sri Lanka Ties”. The panel included Ambassador Ashok Kantha, Ambassador Yash Sinha, Mr. Pratap M Heblikar. The discussion was also attended by Dr. Arvind Gupta, Director (VIF), Lt. General R. K. Sawhney (Retd.), J.R Bhat, Sudhir Saxena and other Senior Fellows and researchers from the VIF. Dr. Arvind Gupta delivered the opening remarks by emphasizing the current political landscape shaping India-Sri Lanka relations.

The roundtable discussion focused on strengthening India-Sri Lanka relations through strategic agreements and deeper cooperation using connectivity projects, energy partnerships, and a new defence framework. The importance of cultural ties and people-to-people connections was emphasized as a means to boost soft power and bilateral trust. Economic inter linkages and the creation of a favourable investment climate for Indian businesses were also highlighted as vital to long-term cooperation. The meeting also covered non-traditional security issues such as climate change, health emergencies, fisheries, and environmental collaboration, with consensus on the need for joint efforts to address these challenges. Moreover, India’s established role in defence training and support was acknowledged as a key component of the strategic relationship.