Bridging Borders: Enhancing Connectivity Between India And Sri Lanka

The opening session, titled “Digitalization for Enhanced Connectivity: Digital Public Infrastructure for a Connected Future,” highlighted India’s leadership in digital development for developing nations, while also discussing the challenges of navigating geopolitical complexities. India’s success in creating a robust and cost-effective DPI infrastructure was presented as a potential solution for Sri Lanka. Experts discussed the importance of interoperable, reusable, and sovereign-controlled DPI systems. Sri Lanka was identified as lacking robust payment platforms, digital identity infrastructure, and data-sharing mechanisms, all crucial elements of a strong DPI. The need for leadership with a strong digital vision and commitment to overcome bureaucratic hurdles was emphasized. A compatible market ecosystem and strong leadership were highlighted as crucial for Sri Lanka’s digital transformation. The importance of data privacy in digital governance was discussed, contrasting approaches in the US and Europe. India’s institutionalized DPI framework, with strong data privacy and retention principles, was presented as a successful model. India’s shift towards protocols and capacity building to ensure interoperability for different DPI needs was highlighted. 

The second session on “Bridging the Gap: Strengthening Physical and Maritime Connectivity Between India and Sri Lanka”, highlighted Sri Lanka’s strategic location as a key advantage for fostering maritime and land connectivity. Both sides acknowledged the need for agreements on maritime connectivity and ongoing discussions regarding land connectivity projects. Sri Lanka expressed concerns about potential dominance by India, the impact on domestic politics, and the need to maintain strong bilateral relations. The unresolved fisheries dispute between Tamil Nadu and Sri Lanka remains a significant hurdle. Sri Lanka underscored the importance of diversifying partnerships beyond India. 

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