Jaishankar and Zhao to Make Surprise Visits to Sri Lanka This Week for Presidential Meetings

 Amidst the nation's efforts to rebuild following the devastation caused by Cyclone "Dithwa," two high-ranking diplomats from India and China are scheduled to meet separately with President Anura Kumara Dissanayake next week for discussions.

During these meetings, discussions will primarily focus on the recent natural disaster, with broad attention also given to the economy, bilateral relations, and regional issues, according to senior government sources.

Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and a high-level delegation are scheduled to arrive on the island tomorrow, with a meeting with the President set for the following day. During this visit, the Indian Foreign Minister is prepared to deliver a special message from Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the President. Discussions are expected to cover several areas of cooperation, including enhancing economic ties, and the President is also slated to express the gratitude of the government and the people for India's support during this challenging time.

Meanwhile, senior Chinese official Zhao Leji, considered the third-highest leader in the Chinese government after President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang, along with his delegation, is scheduled to arrive on the island on Tuesday. He is expected to meet President Dissanayake on the same day, commencing a two-day official visit to the country.

Government sources state that discussions between the two sides are expected to cover the country's urgent needs following the cyclone disaster, as well as potential future aid from China and strengthening bilateral relations.

Government sources indicate that in addition to the Rs. 500 billion supplementary estimate approved by Parliament for cyclone relief efforts, a similar amount will be required next year to support the affected population. Although supplementary estimates for this year had to be limited due to budget constraints and International Monetary Fund agreements, additional provisions will be necessary to continue these relief efforts next year, the sources further added.