India's president, Pranab Mukherjee, on Wednesday expressed his hope to strengthen ties with Colombo, as Sri Lanka prepared to mark 'Independence Day'.
"The ties of friendship between India and Sri Lanka go back centuries and have matured over time to include all areas of contemporary relevance," Mr Mukherjee was quoted by NDTVas saying to Sri Lanka's president, Maithripala Sirisena.
"I am confident that the renewed vigour in the Sri Lankan polity under your leadership will not only allow you to realise your vision for Sri Lanka but also strengthen the partnership between India and Sri Lanka for the mutual benefit of the people of our two countries."
"I would like to take this opportunity to assure you that, as a close friend and neighbour, we support your vision for Sri Lanka."