RNS: After a gap of forty years, the much-awaited ferry service between India and Sri Lanka has been reinstated, marking a momentous occasion in diplomatic and economic relations between the two nations. A virtual flag-off ceremony was held today, presided over by prominent dignitaries, including External Affairs Minister Dr Jaishankar, Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, State Minister E.V. Velu, and Raghupathy.
The maiden voyage of this renewed ferry service commenced from Nagapattinam (Tamil Nadu), India, with its destination being the port of Kankesanthurai in Sri Lanka. The journey is expected to take approximately three hours under normal weather conditions. Adding to the significance of the event, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the attendees virtually.
In his address, Prime Minister Modi heralded the beginning of a new chapter in the diplomatic and economic relations between India and Sri Lanka. He described this as a momentous milestone, underscoring the deep cultural ties and historical connections that bind the two countries.
Prime Minister Modi invoked the visionary poet Subramania Bharathi, who had envisioned a bridge connecting the two nations. He highlighted the economic partnership vision document, emphasizing the importance of connectivity between the two countries and their people. Reflecting on history, Modi noted the momentous launch of the first direct flight from Delhi to Colombo in 2015, as well as the inaugural flight from Kushinagar to Sri Lanka.
He regarded the current event as another crucial step forward, emphasizing the mutual support provided through fintech and energy initiatives. The establishment of an energy grid between the two countries was celebrated as a significant milestone in bilateral relations. Modi reiterated the vision of inclusive development, leaving no one behind.
External Affairs Minister Dr Jaishankar spoke about the long-standing dream shared by people in both India and Sri Lanka for closer ties. He commended Prime Minister Modi for transforming this dream into a reality and highlighted Modi’s role in bringing the two nations closer together. He lauded Modi’s exceptional leadership and noted that he was the first Indian Prime Minister to provide assistance to rebuild lives in Jaffna, Sri Lanka.
Sri Lankan Minister De Silva expressed optimism that the ferry service would enhance people-to-people ties between the two countries. He praised the excellent leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, describing him as the driving force behind realizing shared aspirations. He shared the desire of the people in northern Sri Lanka to visit prominent Indian destinations like Buddha Gaya. Minister De Silva also acknowledged India’s valuable assistance in developing the Sri Lankan port, a project costing 600 million Sri Lankan rupees. He announced the imminent launch of the Talaimannar and Rameswaram ferry service, further strengthening connectivity.
State Minister for Ports E.V. Velu highlighted the pivotal role of the Nagapattinam port in fostering trade between India, Sri Lanka, and Singapore. He emphasized the potential of the all-weather passenger shipping service to facilitate year-round travel, promoting people-to-people interactions between the two countries.
The restoration of the long-awaited ferry service symbolizes a historic moment, reinvigorating ties and opening new avenues for cooperation in trade, tourism, and cultural exchanges between India and Sri Lanka.
