Amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, particularly the ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel, India has extended a helping hand to Sri Lanka by assuring the evacuation of its citizens stranded in Iran. This act of solidarity underscores the strong and enduring partnership between the two nations, reaffirming India's commitment to its "Neighbourhood First" policy.
The decision to assist Sri Lankan nationals came in response to a formal request from the Sri Lankan government, highlighting the close diplomatic ties and mutual trust that characterize India-Sri Lanka relations. The Sri Lankan Foreign Ministry expressed its sincere gratitude to India for the timely assistance, acknowledging the gesture as a testament to the robust partnership between the two countries. Less than 100 Sri Lankans are reportedly in Iran.
India's efforts are part of a broader evacuation operation, "Operation Sindhu," launched by the Indian government to bring home its own citizens from Iran, where the security situation has deteriorated due to recent hostilities. Responding to requests from both Nepal and Sri Lanka, India has broadened the operation's scope to include their citizens as well. The Indian Embassy in Tehran has been designated as the primary point of contact for Sri Lankan and Nepalese nationals seeking evacuation assistance, with emergency contact numbers and Telegram channels established to facilitate communication and coordination.
India's proactive approach in assisting its neighbors during times of crisis reflects its growing role as a regional leader and its commitment to humanitarian assistance. This is not the first time India has undertaken such initiatives; in the past, India has launched similar operations to evacuate its citizens and those of other countries from conflict zones and disaster-stricken areas, including "Operation Kaveri" in Sudan, "Operation Ganga" in Ukraine, and "Operation Devi Shakti" in Afghanistan.
The close relationship between India and Sri Lanka is rooted in a shared history, culture, and strong economic ties. The two countries have a legacy of intellectual, cultural, religious, and linguistic interaction spanning over 2,500 years. India has historically been one of Sri Lanka's largest trade partners, and they both share a broad understanding on major issues of international interest. This partnership extends to cooperation in various fields, including development, education, culture, and defence.
India's development cooperation with Sri Lanka stands out as one of the most important pillars of their bilateral relationship. India's overall credit assistance to Sri Lanka amounts to over USD 7 billion, including concessional loans, deferment of payment & swap agreements. This assistance has played a crucial role in supporting Sri Lanka's economic development and post-conflict recovery efforts.
In the face of escalating tensions in the Middle East, India's gesture of extending its evacuation efforts to include Sri Lankan nationals serves as a powerful symbol of solidarity and mutual support. It reinforces the deep-rooted bonds between the two nations and underscores India's commitment to being a reliable partner to its neighbors in times of need.
