Sri Lanka's High Commissioner to India has called for strengthening bilateral relations while maintaining the country's strategic autonomy and territorial integrity in dealings with New Delhi.

Sri Lanka's High Commissioner to India, Mahishini Colonne, has stressed the importance of deepening the relationship between the two nations while ensuring that Sri Lanka's sovereignty and strategic independence remain protected.

Addressing participants at India's National Defence College, Colonne delivered a lecture examining various dimensions of bilateral relations between Sri Lanka and India, including shared interests, current standing, potential opportunities, and existing challenges. The presentation emphasized the need to find a balanced approach that serves both nations' interests.

The High Commissioner's remarks were made before an audience of 122 senior officials from India's military, civil administration, and police services, alongside 41 international officers representing various countries including Sri Lanka. This marked the second time Colonne has addressed the institution's leadership course, having previously spoken to the 65th batch in August 2025.

The emphasis on safeguarding sovereignty while pursuing closer ties reflects Sri Lanka's broader approach to managing its strategic partnerships in the region, particularly as the two neighboring nations continue to navigate complex diplomatic and security relationships.