Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Ali Sabry reassured India of his country’s commitment to protecting India’s national security interests on Monday. Ali Sabry emphasized that Colombo, as a responsible neighbor, is dedicated to preventing any harm to India’s security.
Addressing concerns about Chinese research vessels visiting Sri Lanka, Ali Sabry asserted a transparent approach in working with all countries. However, he emphasized that Sri Lanka will not compromise India’s security interests.
“We would like to work with all countries, but any reasonable concerns regarding Indian security will be taken into note, and we will not allow anyone to harm that,” Ali Sabry stated in an interview with ANI. He reiterated Sri Lanka’s stance as a responsible neighbor, affirming their refusal to undertake actions that endanger India’s legitimate security concerns.
Ali Sabry also commented on India’s ongoing elections, describing them as a celebration of democracy. He expressed Sri Lanka’s willingness to collaborate with India, irrespective of the election outcome.
Last year, India expressed apprehension over a Chinese research vessel docking at Sri Lanka’s Hambantota Port. The vessel was portrayed as having the capability to map the ocean bed, raising concerns about its potential impact on India’s security, particularly in anti-submarine operations.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar had highlighted India’s interest in developments affecting its security. He stated, “What happens in our neighborhood, any developments which have a bearing on our security, obviously are of an interest to us.”
Ali Sabry’s comments underscore Sri Lanka’s diplomatic balancing act between fostering international ties and safeguarding regional security concerns.
