Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has assured India that Sri Lanka will not allow its territory, waters or airspace to threaten India’s national security. He also reaffirmed Colombo’s commitment to a non-aligned foreign policy amid the ongoing US-Iran conflict. Dissanayake made the statement on Sunday during a public gathering in Nikaweratiya, in Sri Lanka’s Northwestern Province. He stressed that his government would maintain an independent foreign policy and keep the country out of military conflicts. “Our seas, our land would [never be allowed to be used for any hostile act against our neighbour India]," he said. The president also highlighted his government’s foreign policy achievements over the past two years. He said Sri Lanka would not join military conflicts because it lacked significant military capabilities. “We are not a nation of any military capabilities, so we would not become a party to any military conflict," he said.

Sri Lanka Rejects Requests From the US and Iran

Dissanayake said Sri Lanka had rejected requests from both the United States and Iran to support their sides in the ongoing conflict across West Asia. According to PTI, Colombo denied permission for US aircraft to land in Sri Lanka. It also rejected Iran’s request to send warships to the country. The president said Sri Lanka would remain neutral and avoid direct military involvement. However, he stressed that the country would continue to provide humanitarian assistance when necessary. “But we won’t hesitate when asked for humanitarian assistance,” he said. Sri Lanka demonstrated this approach in March when it provided hospital treatment to sailors from an Iranian vessel that a US submarine had struck. The incident highlighted Colombo’s position. The country intends to stay out of military operations while helping people affected by the conflict.

India and Sri Lanka Reaffirm Bilateral Ties

Dissanayake’s latest remarks followed his meeting with Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh in Colombo last month. During their talks, both sides discussed bilateral relations and ways to strengthen cooperation on regional security, peace and prosperity. Dissanayake reiterated that Sri Lanka would not allow its territory to be used for activities that threaten India’s security interests. Singh visited Sri Lanka for three days. During the visit, he conveyed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s greetings to Dissanayake and congratulated the Sri Lankan president on completing two years in office. The meeting highlighted the importance both countries attach to their close relationship and shared security concerns.

Maritime Security Remains a Priority

During Singh’s visit, India and Sri Lanka reaffirmed their commitment to working together as close neighbours. They also pledged to strengthen maritime cooperation and support regional stability, development and public welfare. Both countries recognise the importance of cooperation in the surrounding maritime region. Their partnership also plays a role in addressing shared security challenges. Dissanayake’s latest statement reinforces Sri Lanka’s commitment to protecting India’s security interests. At the same time, Colombo wants to maintain its non-aligned foreign policy and avoid involvement in the US-Iran conflict. Sri Lanka is seeking to balance its regional relationships while preserving close ties with India. Its position also reflects an effort to prevent the country from becoming involved in a wider military confrontation.