Colombo, Jan. 2 -- Sri Lanka's Leader of the Opposition and Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) leader Sajith Premadasa has said that India's leadership is indispensable for ensuring security and stability in the Indian Ocean region and for maintaining long-term peace across South Asia.

Speaking in an exclusive interview from Colombo, Premadasa said that India's national interests and Sri Lanka's national interests clearly converge, creating the foundation for mutual respect, understanding and constructive cooperation between the two neighbours.

Acknowledging India as a global superpower, Premadasa said this reality must be recognised both regionally and internationally. He reiterated his support for India's permanent membership in the United ...