India Sri Lanka Ties

Economically sluggish India faces tough Chinese competition in Sri Lanka and the Indian Ocean

Rajapaksa arrived here on Thursday on a three-day visit, his first overseas tour after taking over the reins of Sri Lanka 10 days back, a reflection of importance he attaches to ties with India

He also said both India and Sri Lanka need to work together on issues related to security and overall welfare of the people of the two countries

Rajapaksa, who is considered pro-China, said he wanted Sri Lanka to be a "neutral country" and work with all the countries

Mahinda Rajapaksa on Thursday took oath as Sri Lanka's new prime minister

The 70-year-old controversial wartime defence secretary's victory is of significant importance for India

The three countries will jointly build the East Container Terminal at the Port of Colombo