PM Modi’s Thailand, Sri Lanka Tour Signals Strong Push for Regional Unity
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Thailand and Sri Lanka from April 3 to 6, aiming to strengthen ties and promote regional collaboration under India’s freshly unveiled ‘MAHASAGAR policy’ and its vision for a secure, thriving Indo-Pacific. The two-nation trip underscores India’s commitment to fostering partnerships in its neighborhood and beyond, according to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).
Modi will kick off his journey in Bangkok, attending the sixth BIMSTEC Summit on April 3 and 4, hosted by Thailand. This marks his third visit to the country, the MEA noted on Friday. Following this, he will head to Sri Lanka for a three-day visit to engage with the nation’s top leaders.
“The prime minister’s visits to Thailand and Sri Lanka, along with his role in the BIMSTEC Summit, highlight India’s dedication to its ‘Neighbourhood First’ and ‘Act East’ policies, as well as the ‘MAHASAGAR’ vision for the Indo-Pacific,” the MEA stated. The ‘MAHASAGAR’ framework, meaning “Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions,” was introduced by Modi during a recent trip to Mauritius to guide India’s outreach to the Global South.
The BIMSTEC group, which includes India, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Nepal, and Bhutan, will see its leaders at the Bangkok summit exploring ways to deepen cooperation. The MEA said discussions will likely focus on institutional reforms and capacity-building measures to enhance collaboration within the bloc. India has been proactive in driving BIMSTEC initiatives, particularly in areas like security, trade, connectivity, and joint efforts on food, energy, climate, and human security.
On the bilateral front, Modi will meet Thailand’s prime minister on April 3 to assess current ties and outline future cooperation. The MEA emphasized the deep historical and cultural connections between India and Thailand, maritime neighbors linked by shared heritage.
From Bangkok, Modi will travel to Sri Lanka on April 4 for a state visit. In Colombo, he will hold talks with President Anura Kumara Disanayaka to review progress on agreements from the Sri Lankan leader’s prior visit to India, centered on a joint vision for “fostering partnerships for a shared future.” Modi is also slated to meet senior officials and political figures in the capital. Additionally, he will visit Anuradhapura to launch development projects funded by Indian aid, showcasing tangible outcomes of the bilateral relationship.