India privileged to be 'development partner' for Sri Lanka: PM Modi

Expressing his delight to be in Colombo, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said India is privileged to be Sri Lanka's development partner.

"I am delighted to be in Sri Lanka, and in this beautiful city of Colombo," said Prime Minister Modi.

"I am conscious of the significance of this visit. This is the first stand alone bilateral visit by an Indian Prime Minister since 1987," he added while speaking at the joint press meet with Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena.

Prime Minister Modi said the trade between New Delhi and Colombo has seen impressive growth over the past decade.

"I am also aware of your concerns and we will try to address them," he added.

Prime Minister Modi further said India stands ready to help Trincomalee become a petroleum hub.

"We will cooperate in developing a Ramayana trail in Sri Lanka and a Buddhist Circuit in India," he added.

Prime Minister Modi said that he admires President Sirisena's efforts to build an inclusive future for Sri Lanka.

"The meeting has been very productive. It gives me confidence and optimism about the future of our relations," he said.