Modi appreciates prompt steps taken by President Sirisena to refute malicious reports

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his discussions with President Sirisena over his alleged comments at the cabinet meeting, said he appreciated   the prompt steps taken by the President and his Government to firmly refute the malicious reports by publicly clarifying the matters.

In a statement regarding the phone conversation which was made available on the Indian Prime Minister's website, the Premier  reiterated India’s emphasis on ‘neighbourhood first’ policy and the priority the Government of India and he personally attach to developing even stronger all-round cooperation between the two countries.

President Sirisena was quoted as saying in the statement that he regards the Prime Minister as a true friend of Sri Lanka, as also a close personal friend. He stressed that he greatly valued the mutually beneficial ties between India and Sri Lanka, and remained steadfast to work with the Prime Minister for futher strengtheing them.

Sri Lankan President ⁦@MaithripalaS⁩ and PM ⁦@narendramodi⁩ had a fruitful telephone conversation earlier today. https://t.co/Lfjh5Ujpfd

via NaMo App pic.twitter.com/CLleakChcO

— PMO India (@PMOIndia) October 17, 2018