Colombo, May 10: Anura Kumara Dissanayake, the President of Sri Lanka, extended his congratulations to C. Joseph Vijay, who took the oath as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu on Sunday. Dissanayake expressed eagerness to work together to strengthen ties and build a robust partnership.
In a post on the social media platform X, he wrote, “Congratulations to C. Joseph Vijay on taking the oath as Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu. Sri Lanka and Tamil Nadu share a long-standing connection rooted in history, culture, industry, and generations of people.”
He further stated, “Our future holds significant economic expectations and opportunities, as Sri Lanka and India continue to foster close relations and a strong partnership. I look forward to collaborating for greater prosperity and progress under the strong India-Sri Lanka partnership. The people of Sri Lanka join me in wishing you and the people of Tamil Nadu every success.”
Vijay’s oath-taking marks the end of nearly six decades of alternating governance between the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) and the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK).
Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar administered the oath of office and secrecy to Vijay at a grand ceremony held at the Jawaharlal Nehru Indoor Stadium, where nine ministers also took their oaths.
It is noteworthy that India and Sri Lanka share deep diplomatic and cultural ties. Under the “Neighborhood First” policy, India is always ready to assist Sri Lanka. There is a profound cultural connection between Tamil Nadu and Sri Lanka, with the Tamil language serving as a vital link.
Approximately 18% of Sri Lanka’s population speaks Tamil. Historically, the relationship between India and Sri Lanka is significant, particularly linked to the epic tales of Lord Rama and the abduction of Sita. Key sites like Ram Setu, Ashoka Vatika, and the Sita Amman Temple continue to symbolize this connection.
Moreover, the trade relations between Tamil Nadu and Sri Lanka are also deeply rooted, dating back nearly 2000 years. In ancient times, Tamil Nadu’s ports of Kaveripattinam and Nagapattinam facilitated the export of pearls, spices (like cinnamon), ivory, and precious gems to other parts of the world.
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