Prime Minister Narendra Modi focused on symbolism as he wrapped up his two-day visit to Sri Lanka, which also ends his three-nation tour in the Indian Ocean.
In Jaffna, the Tamil heartland of Sri Lanka, Modi flagged off the building of a cultural centre costing Rs. 60 crore which is to be funded by the Indian state.
Modi assured the people of Jaffna that the task taken up by India in the construction of the cultural centre will be be completed in time and will exceed their expectations.
“India is proud to have an opportunity to establish a unique and world-level cultural centre in Jaffna. When a library is established, a place where books can be found, it unites the generations,” he said.
Extending his solidarity with the people of Jaffna, Modi said, “Jaffna is making a new mark for itself. The world is experiencing the message of peace from here”.
“Even if I had come here without any scheduled programme, only to bow to this land, it would be a very big thing,” he said.
Referring to the trials and tribulations faced by people of Jaffna, Modi said, “Jaffna has seen several ups and downs.
People have faced several difficulties”.
Modi also said that India and Sri Lanka are not just neighbours but have historical links. While in Jaffna, Modi also had a meeting with Wigneswaran at the Jaffna Public Library.
At the function to hand over houses, Modi said, “These houses are not merely walls of bricks and stone. These houses are an effort to make the lives of those who have suffered happier.”
“I am glad this programme, my final public programme during my Sri Lanka visit, is one to wipe tears from the eyes of those who suffered,” he said.
Modi said 47,000 homes will be built for the benefit of displaced persons in the next phase, a statement which was greeted by loud cheers from the assembled people.
“This is a unique type of project -- owner driven. This idea was started in Gujarat after 2001 earthquake,” he added.
Seeking an action plan to resolve all the problems in the country’s northern and eastern provinces, Wigneswaran said there is a need for creation of “innovative and creative” measure for greater devolution of powers in Sri Lanka. “We seek justice and fair play,” he said.
The Northern Province Chief Minister also said there is need for services of a guarantor on the issue of devolution of powers, adding that India is “best suited” for this role.
Modi flew in here by an IAF chopper after a brief visit to the holy town of Anuradhapura where he offered prayers at the sacred Mahabodhi tree.
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