India, April 6 -- Measures to deepen defence and energy ties were front and centre during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Sri Lanka, and the agreements finalised in these spheres by the two sides reflect their intention to add strategic heft to their partnership. It was also significant that these agreements were concluded by a Sri Lankan leader whose party has been known for its historic anti-India stance, and at a time when India's relations with several of its immediate neighbours are under considerable stress.

A growing recognition of the interlinked nature of the national security of India and Sri Lanka paved the way for the agreement on defence cooperation, which creates a structured framework for increasing military exchan...