Colombo: India is committed to strengthening the multi-faceted ties with Sri Lanka, especially the historical and deep civilizational, religious and cultural bonds, said the new Indian envoy to the island nation on Saturday.
Gopal Baglay, the new High Commissioner of India to Sri Lanka, on Saturday visited the religious-cultural sites here which he said were important in furthering the historical bonds between the two South Asian neighbours.
Baglay visited the prominent Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple, which is over 120 years old, and prayed for the health, peace and prosperity of the people of Sri Lanka and India and their friendship and cooperation, the Indian High Commission said in a statement.
This was his first movement from his official residence after observing stipulated health protocols since his arrival on May 8 on a special flight carrying a gift consignment of medicines and medical items from India to Sri Lanka.
Baglay presented his credentials to President Gotabhaya Rajapaksa on May 14 during a ceremony held in Colombo through video-conferencing, a first of its kind conducted due to the coronavirus pandemic.
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The High Commissioner stressed the commitment of India's leadership to strengthen multifaceted ties, especially the historical and deep civilisational, religious and cultural bonds, with Sri Lanka.