A five-member Tamil National Alliance (TNA) delegation led by MP R. Sampanthan met Indian High Commissioner in Sri Lanka Gopal Baglay and discussed various aspects of devolution and developmental aspirations of the people in the Northern and Eastern provinces of the island nation.

Leader of Ilangai Tamil Arasu Katchi (ITAK) Maavai Senathirajah, TNA MPs Dharmalingam Sithadthan, Selvam Adaikkalanathan and M.A. Sumanthiran were present during the meeting held at the India House.

The meeting focused on the development of the North and East of Sri Lanka and improving connectivity with India in the post-Covid period, Daily Mirror reported.

The High Commissioner stressed India’s longstanding commitment towards creating social infrastructure such as housing that would enable all Sri Lankans including the people from the Northern and Eastern Provinces to enjoy the fruits of peace.

He reiterated Indian support for rehabilitation and development in areas such as connectivity, health and education.

The TNA delegation apprised the envoy on progress regarding Provincial Council elections.

The high commissioner reiterated India's support for devolution within the framework of a united Sri Lanka that would also be in line with Tamil aspirations for equality, justice, peace and reconciliation and strengthen the nation.

Tamils in southern India have old social and cultural links with Tamils in northern Sri Lanka. 

(SAM)