India expects Sri Lanka to remain mindful of bilateral ties; Spokesperson

COLOMBO (News 1st); India says it is closely following recent developments on Sri Lanka's Colombo Port City Project from its security perspective.

"We have also noted the concerns that have been raised in Sri Lanka regarding several aspects of the framework for the Colombo port city project." said the Indian External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Shri Arindam Bagchi on Thursday (17).

He said that India expects Sri Lanka to remain mindful of excellent bilateral cooperation, including for mutual security in a shared environment, which includes the maritime domain.

"As regards our projects, India has a very extensive portfolio of Development Partnership projects in Sri Lanka and we are in regular contact with Sri Lankan Authorities regarding the implementation of these projects," he said.

The Sri Lankan Parliament recently passed the controversial Colombo Port City Economic Commission Bill, with the government saying the Chinese-backed project would bring in investment and boost the island nation's economy.

The Opposition parties, however, had alleged that the bill would lead to the creation of a Chinese colony in Sri Lanka.