In response to media queries on developments in Sri Lanka, MEA Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said: “India will always be guided by the best interests of the people of Sri Lanka”.
He said – “As a close neighbour of Sri Lanka, with historical ties, India is fully supportive of its democracy, stability and economic recovery.”
In keeping with India’s Neighbourhood First policy, he said “India has extended this year alone support worth over US$ 3.5 billion to the people of Sri Lanka for helping them overcome their current difficulties.”
In addition, the people of India have provided assistance in mitigating the shortages of essential items such as food, medicine etc.
“India will always be guided by the best interests of the people of Sri Lanka expressed through democratic processes,” he said.
Sri Lanka’s former Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa and his family have taken shelter at a naval base in Trincomalee in the northeast part of the island nation, sources said.
