'Trust and friendship of Sri Lanka means a great deal to us': PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said the trust, confidence and friendship of Sri Lanka means a great deal to India, adding that he was grateful for the friendship shown to him during his visit to the island nation.

"In South Asia, we all tend to be emotional about friendship. So, we are grateful for the friendship you have shown us. The trust, confidence and friendship of Sri Lanka mean a great deal to us. To know that we live not only in proximity, but also in each other's hearts is very comforting," Prime Minister Modi said at the banquet hosted by Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena on Friday.

"Since the time we arrived, we have experienced the wonderful hospitality and the warmth of your welcome at every step. We are touched by the affection of the people. We can travel around the world, but nothing compares with the feeling of comfort and belonging that I get in a neighbouring country," he added.

The Prime Minister said it was his privilege to tour Sri Lanka just a month after President Sirisena's visit to India.

"We are grateful to you for visiting us so soon after your election. We were honoured that you chose India as your first destination. It is my privilege to visit Sri Lanka just a month later - and to be your first guest. Sri Lankans and Indians will always turn to each other with the natural instincts of friendship and kinship," he said.

He also congratulated President Sirisena for a historic victory in a remarkable election.

"Your mandate carried the collective voice of Sri Lanka; and, the aspirations of every section of this richly diverse nation. You and the entire political leadership have shown great wisdom and courage in uniting behind a common purpose. And, together you have taken bold steps towards a future of a more united, more inclusive and a more prosperous Sri Lanka," said Prime Minister Modi.

He also revealed his excitement about visiting Anuradhapur, Jaffna and Talaimanar today - "places that are symbols of our multi-faceted relationship."

"Sri Lanka's great Gandhian Shri Ariaratne had spoken about blending science and technology and spiritualism for a nobler, more just and more peaceful world. India and Sri Lanka have their shared spiritual heritage and the tools of the modern world to make a difference," said the Prime Minister.

Prime Minister Modi is in Sri Lanka on the third and final leg of his five-day three-nation tour and is the first Indian Prime Minister to visit Sri Lanka in 28 years.