New opportunities and a few old issues as Wickremesinghe comes calling

Source: The post is based on the article “New opportunities and a few old issues as Wickremesinghe comes calling” published in “The Indian Express” on 19th July 2023.

Syllabus: GS 2- IR (India and its neighborhood-relations.)

News: This article discusses Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s upcoming visit to India, highlighting past tensions, current efforts for closer ties, and ongoing concerns regarding the Tamil issue in India-Sri Lanka relations.

What are the past tensions and ongoing concerns in India-Sri Lanka relations?

Past tensions in India-Sri Lanka relations

Commitment issues: During Wickremesinghe’s previous tenure as Prime Minister, he failed to move forward with the commitments made to India. For instance, projects like the development of the Trincomalee oil tank farm remained stagnant.

Hambantota port sale: Under Wickremesinghe, the Hambantota port was sold to a state-owned Chinese company that had initially built it to settle Sri Lanka’s debts.

Indian intervention in the 1980s: India trained Tamil militant groups in the 1980s, leading to the 1987 India-Sri Lanka Accord. This caused resentment in Sri Lanka when the Indian Peace Keeping Force was deployed in the northern and eastern parts of the island nation.

Ongoing Concerns in India-Sri Lanka Relations

Docking of Yuan Wang 5: Recently, a ship called Yuan Wang 5 docked in Hambantota. While Sri Lanka and China described it as a “scientific research vessel”, India viewed it as a “surveillance” ship with strategic capabilities.

Financial assistance & projects: India’s financial help to Sri Lanka has led to some Sri Lankans feeling that their country is paying a heavy price for India’s assistance.

The Tamil question: The demand for the full implementation of the 13th Amendment, which grants provincial autonomy to the Tamil-dominated Northern Province, remains a contentious issue. The amendment, introduced under the 1987 Accord, hasn’t been fully implemented, leading to continued dissatisfaction among Tamils.

How is the Tamil issue influencing the current dynamics between India and Sri Lanka?

1987 Accord obligations: As a signatory to the 1987 Accord, India is seen as a guarantor of the agreement. Tamil groups demand that India ensure Sri Lanka fully implements the 13th Amendment, granting provincial autonomy to the Tamil-majority Northern Province.

Election implications: Some believe emphasizing the 13th amendment before upcoming elections may assist the Rajapaksas by portraying it as a “separatist” amendment.

Fishery disputes: The issue of Tamil Nadu fishers poaching in Sri Lankan waters has caused friction between Tamils on both sides of the Palk Strait, affecting bilateral relations.

What will be the impact of this visit on India Sri Lanka relationship?

Strengthening economic ties: Wickremesinghe’s emphasis on “economic integration” hints at possible advancements on agreements like the Economic and Technical Co-operation Agreement. His advocacy for bilateral deals and special trade areas with India’s southern states also hints at future collaboration.

Addressing controversial issues: Past concerns like the Hambantota port sale to a Chinese firm and the docking of the “surveillance” ship Yuan Wang 5 in Sri Lankan waters affected trust. The visit might provide an opportunity to address and clarify these decisions.

Rebuilding political rapport: Given the limited time of Wickremesinghe’s stay and New Delhi’s earlier reservations about him, this visit is significant in rebuilding political trust and understanding.

The Tamil issue: Tamil groups pressuring India over the 13th Amendment showcases the importance of the Tamil issue in bilateral relations. Wickremesinghe’s interactions with Tamil parties before his visit underscores this.

Future commitments: Wickremesinghe has expressed a desire for a long-term relationship “transcending individual leaders or political parties.” This visit will likely lay the groundwork for future engagements and collaborations, especially in economic sectors.