India and Sri Lanka are moving towards a “new chapter of diplomatic and economic relations”, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Saturday at the launch of ferry services between Nagapattinam in India and Kankesanthurai in Sri Lanka.
“Connectivity is not only about bringing two cities closer. It also brings our countries closer, our people closer and our hearts closer,” Mr. Modi said, emphasising trade, tourism and people-to-people ties in promoting new opportunities for growth for the young people of both countries.
In his remarks, Mr. Modi highlighted the rich history of maritime trade linked to Nagapattinam and nearby towns that have been known for maritime trade for ages. He also mentioned the great poet Subramania Bharati’s song ‘Sindhu Nadhiyin Misai’ which referred to a bridge connecting India and Sri Lanka. The ferry service, Mr. Modi said, brought alive all those historical and cultural links.
