Adani project to China: What Sri Lanka President's stance means for India

Known for pro-China leanings in the past, Marxist-leaning politician Anura Kumara Dissanayake on Monday officially took the oath of office as Sri Lanka's new President, in a development that was closely watched by India, which has significant geopolitical and security stakes in the Indian Ocean island nation. Dissanayake victory in Saturday's presidential election, which saw him defeat several prominent candidates like incumbent President Ranil Wickremesinghe and Namal Rajapaksa, son of former President Mahinda Rajapaksa, marks a significant shift in the Indian neighbour's political landscape. The election comes in the aftermath of mass protests that led to Gotabaya Rajapaksa's ousting in 2022. On Monday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Dissanayake on his election victory and expressed optimism about collaborating with Sri Lanka to enhance the multifaceted cooperation between the two nations. For his part, Dissanayake responded by thanking PM Modi for his "kind" words and support, stating that he shares the Indian leader's commitment to strengthening the relationship between the two nations. "Together, we can work towards enhancing cooperation for the benefit of our peoples and the entire region," Dissanayake posted on social media platform X on Monday, ahead of his inauguration.