KKN Gurugram Desk | Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a grand ceremonial welcome upon arriving in Colombo, marking the beginning of a two-day official visit to Sri Lanka. The highlight of the trip came when PM Modi was awarded the “Sri Lanka Mithra Vibhushan”, the highest civilian honour of the island nation.
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This award recognizes his contributions toward strengthening India-Sri Lanka relations across diplomacy, culture, and regional cooperation.
???? Cricket Diplomacy in Action: Meeting Legends of 1996
In a symbolic and heartfelt gesture, PM Modi met with members of the Sri Lankan cricket team that won the 1996 ICC World Cup. The meeting included legendary players like:
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Sanath Jayasuriya
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Chaminda Vaas
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Aravinda de Silva
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Marvan Atapattu
Their historic win in Lahore over Australia brought global attention to Sri Lankan cricket.
???? PM Modi’s Social Media Moment
After the meeting, PM Modi shared a photo with the cricketers on social media platform X, captioning:
“Cricket connect! Delighted to interact with members of the 1996 Sri Lankan cricket team, which won the World Cup that year. This team captured the imagination of countless sports lovers!”
The post quickly went viral, celebrated by fans of both nations as a moment of sports diplomacy.
????️ Sri Lankan Cricket Icons Reflect
???? Marvan Atapattu said:
“Meeting a statesman of PM Modi’s caliber is an honour. He’s a global leader who has redefined India’s role. We feel lucky to have had this interaction.”
???? Aravinda de Silva shared:
“To be elected PM of such a vast country for the third time is extraordinary. He has done much for India. Our conversation was insightful and enjoyable.”
???? Sanath Jayasuriya noted:
“We discussed cricket and also the current socio-political climate. It was wonderful learning about his journey and his vision for India. Jaffna’s proposed stadium also came up.”
????️ India’s Support in Jaffna Stadium Project
PM Modi also spoke with the players about India’s involvement in developing an international cricket stadium in Jaffna, aimed at promoting sports and reconciliation in northern Sri Lanka. This reflects India’s people-centric diplomacy.
???? Strengthening Bilateral Ties Beyond Politics
The visit highlighted India’s growing strategic, cultural, and emotional engagement with Sri Lanka. Ongoing cooperation spans:
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Infrastructure and Development
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Education and Health
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Cultural Exchange
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Humanitarian Projects
PM Modi’s personal outreach through cricket added a soft power dimension to traditional diplomacy.
PM Modi’s Sri Lanka trip was more than statecraft—it was a celebration of shared history, culture, and sportsmanship. From receiving the Sri Lanka Mithra Vibhushan to sharing laughs with cricket legends, this visit will be remembered as a milestone in India-Sri Lanka friendship.
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