Knowledge bonds crucial for India-SL ties - HC

Atapattu BANDARA

Partnership of knowledge is crucial in enhancing relations between India and Sri Lanka, said Indian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka Ashok K Kantha.

"Knowledge partnership is critical among friendly countries and it should be the core of the relationship between Sri Lankan and India," he said. The Indian envoy was speaking at Taj Samudra Hotel to mark International Students Day and Indian Technical and Economic Co-operation (ITEC) Day. Health Minister Maithripala Sirisena was the chief guest.

"Relations between the two countries was not anchored through civilisation, but expanded with shared values and customs. India has been a trusted partner for Sri Lanka for thousands of years and knowledge played a key part in each sphere of history," he said. The education partnership has been expanded through scholarship programmes, the envoy said.

Health Minister Maithripala Sirisena said India, being the closest neighbour of Sri Lanka, has supported Sri Lanka in every aspect and the assistance provided during the conflict period can never be forgotten.

The minister pointed out the importance of educational partnership between the two countries. "Assistance through education is priceless and that can never be compared to material assistance," he said.

"Education will provide opportunities for the poor and marginalised groups in the society. It is the most crucial factor in any country. Sri Lanka can be proud of recording the highest literacy rate of 98 percent which is the best in the South Asian region," the minister said.

International Students Day is organised annually to commemorate the birth anniversary of first Indian Education Minister Maulana Abul Kalam Azad.