South Asia needs to develop clear response to terrorist infrastructure in region: Prez

Welcoming Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, who called on him at the Rashtrapati Bhavan on Wednesday, the President appreciated the Lankan government's empathy and concern on the Uri attack and said it is essential that the two countries unite in isolating and targeting the source of ideological and financial sustenance in the region which provides shelter as well as training to terrorists. “South Asia needs to develop a clear response to terrorist infrastructure in the region. There is need for unambiguous solidarity against terrorism of all forms,'' he said.

The Lankan Prime Minister warmly reciprocated the President's sentiments and said there has to be a genuine commitment to fighting terrorism in South Asia. “There cannot be any cross-border terrorism.” The President said India appreciates Wickremesinghe's role in Sri Lanka's active re-engagement with the world. "Sri Lanka can count on India's continued support in its endeavour for national unity and reconciliation,” he said.

The President said Government of India shares Government of Sri Lanka's view on prioritising power, renewable energy, ocean resources, port and airport facilities as well as infrastructure.  India has given special emphasis on meeting Sri Lanka's developmental requirements.  Its aid projects in Sri Lanka have a commitment of more than 2.6 billion dollars. Mukherjee said Sri Lanka occupies a special location in India's neighbourhood. Security of the two countries is indivisible. Objectives for regional peace and security and maritime safety in the Indian Ocean are inter-dependent and synergistic.