New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi called up the President and the Premier of Sri Lanka and conveyed heartfelt condolences over the loss of over 200 lives in terrorist attacks in the island nation on Sunday.
During his conversations with Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, Mr Modi condemned the serial terrorist attacks in the strongest terms, perpetrated at sites including religious places and during a religious festival, according to a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office.
Meanwhile external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj said Sunday that India was keeping a close watch on the situation.
Describing the attacks as “cold-blooded and pre-planned barbaric acts”, Mr Modi said these attacks were another grim reminder of the most serious challenge posed to the entire humanity by terrorism in our region and the entire world.
The Prime Minister renewed the offer of all possible help and assistance to Sri Lanka for ensuring its security against the challenges such as those posed by terrorism, the statement said.
He also wished the injured speedy recovery and offered any required assistance for their treatment. “Strongly condemn the horrific blasts in Sri Lanka. There is no place for such barbarism in our region,” Mr Modi tweeted.
“India is standing by Sri Lanka and is ready for any help in the time of crisis,” he said.
Expressing concern over the menace of terrorism, Mr Modi also took this opportunity to stress on voting in favour of the BJP to strengthen the fight against terrorismin India, while addressing rallies in Rajasthan.
Ms Swaraj on her part tweeted that she was in touch with Indian authorities in Sri Lanka.
“Colombo — I am in constant touch with Indian High Commissioner in Colombo. We are keeping a close watch on the situation. @IndiainSL,” Ms Swaraj tweeted.
“We extend our deepest condolences to the families of the victims,” a statement issued by the ministry said.
The ministry said India has always opposed and rejected terrorism in all forms and manifestations and there can be no justification for any kind of terror.
“We call for perpetrators of such ghastly and heinous act and those who provide them support to be brought to justice expeditiously,” the ministry statement said.
