Sri Lanka (Commonwealth Union)_ Sri Lanka’s Opposition Leader, Sajith Premadasa, has expressed strong support for India’s long-standing campaign to secure a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). Calling the move a reflection of “global power realities,” Premadasa said he has backed India’s position for many years and will continue to do so. Addressing the media during his current visit to India, Premadasa described India’s inclusion in the UNSC as “a recognition of the practical realities of international politics.” He noted that he had raised this issue long before and continues to see it as a fair and logical step in global governance. “Years ago, I openly supported India’s right to a permanent seat at the UN Security Council,” he said. “It is not a new issue for me. I will keep supporting it because it reflects how the world actually works today. You cannot ignore India’s influence. India’s place at the UNSC should reflect the true balance of global power.”
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Premadasa’s remarks come as India intensifies its push for reform within the United Nations, urging changes that would make the Security Council more representative of developing nations and emerging economies. When asked about Sri Lanka’s position in the midst of the India-China strategic rivalry, Premadasa emphasized that Colombo maintains a “special strategic relationship” with New Delhi while keeping friendly relations with all countries. “As a party, we strongly believe in a special and strategic relationship with India,” he said. “At the same time, we also seek to work closely with every other nation. Our shared goal is peace and stability. While we maintain this special bond with India, we also hope to act as a mediator to promote peace, security, and harmony across the region.”
During his visit, Premadasa met with India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar in New Delhi on Tuesday. The two leaders discussed India-Sri Lanka relations under the framework of India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy, which focuses on building strong regional partnerships. Following the meeting, Jaishankar posted on X: “Pleased to meet Leader of Opposition @sajithpremadasa of Sri Lanka. Discussed India-Sri Lanka relations and our Neighbourhood First policy. India will always support progress and development in Sri Lanka.” Premadasa also reaffirmed Sri Lanka’s commitment to a non-aligned foreign policy, saying that his country aims to maintain balanced ties with all partners while protecting its national independence.
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In his talks with Jaishankar, he briefed the Indian side on Sri Lanka’s debt restructuring progress and highlighted potential financial challenges the island nation may face around 2028, particularly in relation to debt repayments and its ongoing IMF program. Earlier in the day, Premadasa addressed a gathering at Sapru House, organized by the Indian Council of World Affairs (ICWA). During his speech, he stressed the need for a structured and cooperative approach to resolve the long-standing fishermen issue between India and Sri Lanka. “The fishing issue is vital,” he said in response to a question. “Both nations must work together to establish a proper and effective framework that is based on facts and substance.”
Premadasa pointed to international legal standards, such as the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), emphasizing that both sides should ensure fishing activities remain legal and sustainable. “There are clear international laws under UNCLOS regarding territorial waters and high seas,” he said. “These must be respected. It is important to deal with illegal, unregulated, and unreported fishing in line with these rules.” Considering the livelihood concerns of fishing communities, Premadasa said both governments must find a lasting and lawful solution that protects both the environment and the incomes of those involved. “We understand this affects the daily lives of many families,” he said. “But it is equally important that all economic activities follow legal frameworks. Instead of continuing with temporary measures, both sides should cooperate on a permanent and fair solution.” His comments come amid ongoing maritime tensions over Tamil Nadu fishermen allegedly crossing into Sri Lankan waters near Katchatheevu, often leading to arrests and diplomatic friction.
