Former Sri Lankan cricketer Sanath Jayasuriya met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Colombo on Saturday. During their meeting, he expressed gratitude to India for helping Sri Lanka through its economic crisis.
“When we had unrest and problems in Sri Lanka, you and the government helped us a lot,” Jayasuriya said. “We are always grateful to you for helping Sri Lanka.”
Moreover, Jayasuriya made a special request. He urged the Prime Minister to support the construction of an international cricket stadium in Jaffna. According to him, “It will be a big help for the people in Jaffna and the North and Eastern parts.”
PM Modi Welcomes the Idea
In response, PM Modi appreciated Jayasuriya’s initiative. “I am pleased to hear such words from Jayasuriya,” he stated. He added that India follows the principle of ‘Neighbourhood First’, aiming to assist neighboring nations without delay.
For instance, Modi recalled India’s swift help after an earthquake in Myanmar. He explained, “We help our neighbours as soon as possible. It is India's responsibility.” Referring to Sri Lanka’s recent crisis, he said, “We wanted Sri Lanka to come out of it as soon as possible.”
Furthermore, Modi praised Jayasuriya’s desire to promote sports in northern Sri Lanka. “It will send a strong message that a cricket leader wants international matches to be held in Jaffna,” he noted. He assured, “My team will take a note and see what can be done.”
World Cup Heroes Join the Meet
In addition to Jayasuriya, other members of Sri Lanka’s 1996 World Cup-winning team also met PM Modi. The delegation included Aravinda de Silva, Chaminda Vaas, Kumar Dharmasena, Marvan Atapattu, and Upul Chandana. They honoured the Indian Prime Minister with a memento.
A wonderful conversation with members of the Sri Lankan cricket team that won the 1996 World Cup. Do watch… pic.twitter.com/3cOD0rBZjA
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 6, 2025
To recall, Sri Lanka beat Australia in the 1996 final in Lahore. Aravinda de Silva’s unbeaten century led the team to a famous seven-wicket victory.
India and Sri Lanka Strengthen Rail Ties
Meanwhile, PM Modi and Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe jointly inaugurated key railway projects. They opened the renovated 128-km Maho-Omanthai rail line, funded by India at a cost of over USD 91 million.
In addition, they launched work on a modern signalling system between Maho and Anuradhapura. This upgrade will improve safety and efficiency in Sri Lanka’s rail network.
“These railway modernisation projects mark a milestone in India-Sri Lanka development partnership,” stated India’s Ministry of External Affairs. “They will strengthen north-south rail connectivity in the country.”