MoUs on power grid interconnection, petroleum pipeline to be signed during Modi’s visit

By Kelum Bandara  

Sri Lanka and India are poised to sign MoUs (Memorandum of Understanding) on two power grids connectivity and the establishment of a multi-product petroleum pipeline during India Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming visit to Sri Lanka, Daily Mirror learns.  

The two sides are currently working out the modalities of these MoUs. The Indian leader will start his official visit on April 5. During the visit, he will witness the groundbreaking of a ground-mounted solar energy project in Sampur in the Eastern Province. Initially, he was supposed to visit Sampur to attend the event. However, it is now under discussion that he will not attend the event in person but address the function virtually. 

Also, Prime Minister Modi will participate in Buddhist religious rituals at Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi in Anuradhapura.  

In the joint statement signed between Sri Lanka and India in the aftermath of the visit of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake to India in December, last year, the two sides committed to take steps towards the implementation of the solar power project in Sampur and further augment its capacity as per the requirements of Sri Lanka.  

 The establishment of a high-capacity power grid interconnection and cooperation amongst India, Sri Lanka and UAE to implement a multi-product pipeline from India to Sri Lanka for supply of affordable and reliable energy are envisaged in it.