India yesterday said it stands by the Sri Lankan people and called for democratic means to realise their aspirations. 

External Affairs Ministry Spokesman Arindam Bagchi in a statement said: “India is Sri Lanka’s closest neighbour and our two countries share deep civilisation bonds. We are aware of the many challenges that Sri Lanka and its people have been facing, and we have stood with the Sri Lankan people as they have tried to overcome this difficult period.” 

In pursuance of the central place that Sri Lanka occupies in Indian’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy, he said India has extended this year itself an unprecedented support of over $ 3.8 billion for ameliorating the serious economic situation in Sri Lanka. 

“We continue to follow closely the recent developments in Sri Lanka. India stands with the people of Sri Lanka as they seek to realise their aspirations for prosperity and progress through democratic means and values, established institutions and constitutional framework,” Bagchi added. 

US urges Sri Lanka leaders to ‘work quickly’ to address ‘discontent’