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The Lakshman Kadirgamar Institute of International Relations and Strategic Studies (LKI) and the Institute of Policy Studies of Sri Lanka (IPS) hosted their first joint lecture on 20 November 2017, featuring Dr. S. Narayan, former Finance Secretary of India, who spoke on “India-Sri Lanka Economic Relations in Modi’s India.”

Dr. Narayan highlighted the importance of expanding trade relations beyond Tamil Nadu, stating that there are a wealth of opportunities in the surrounding Southern states yet to be realised. He further emphasised the formalisation of informal trade, as this sector presents a significant growth opportunity in marketable goods. Dr. Narayan also argued that despite the popular perception that India is shifting towards the US on foreign policy matters, India has not abandoned engaging with Russia and China, noting instead that India wishes to make allies with similar concerns about China’s growing sphere of influence.

The lecture was followed by an expert panel discussion featuring Dr. Razeen Sally, Chairman of IPS and Associate Professor at the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy at the National University of Singapore. The discussion was moderated by Dr. Ganeshan Wignaraja, Chair of the Global Economy Programme at LKI.

The high-profile event drew a diverse group of participants, including policy makers, scholars from universities and think tanks, media, representatives from the private sector and civil society, and students. Participants had the opportunity to ask questions, and engage in a broader discussion of the future prospects of Indo-Lanka relations.

Video of the lecture

Resources from the lecture

• Read the key takeaways from the lecture here.

Photos: Fluke, by Ruvin de Silva

Listen to the lecture