India’s leadership is especially essential for peace and stability in South Asia

Statement by Sri Lankan MP Namal Rajapaksa

Colombo (Sri Lanka) – Sri Lankan MP Namal Rajapaksa has stated, in a post on X, that India’s leadership is especially necessary to ensure long-term peace and stability in South Asia. He noted that in the backdrop of changing global and regional security challenges, there is a growing and urgent need for strong regional cooperation in South Asia. In this process, India can play a crucial role, he said. This statement has come at a time when South Asia, along with the rest of the world, is passing through a phase of instability.

🇮🇳 India’s leadership is indispensable for peace & stability in South Asia, says Sri Lankan MP Namal Rajapaksa.

Only India can rise to this responsibility. A self-reliant, fully equipped Bharat won’t just guide South Asia, but shape the world.

Visionary, farsighted decisions… pic.twitter.com/soSlcFsYEV

— Sanatan Prabhat (@SanatanPrabhat) January 9, 2026

India’s leadership central to the Global South

Rajapaksa stated that in recent years, countries such as Bangladesh, Nepal, and Sri Lanka have experienced phases of political instability. During this period, extreme ideological elements have, on several occasions, fuelled unrest. In such circumstances, a collective commitment is required to confront these challenges, counter terrorism, prevent political violence, and protect the rights of minorities.

Amid a series of recent global security developments, there is a growing and urgent need for stronger regional cooperation in South Asia, in which India can play a central role.

In recent years, Bangladesh, Nepal and Sri Lanka have experienced periods of political turmoil,…

— Namal Rajapaksa (@RajapaksaNamal) January 8, 2026

He emphasised that regional unity is vital for maintaining long-term peace and harmony in South Asia, and that India’s leadership is central in this regard. Under Indian leadership, South Asia, united by shared objectives based on development and stability, can play a more effective role at the international level, he noted. He further stated that if the upcoming elections in Bangladesh and Nepal are conducted in a free and fair manner, it will reaffirm democratic legitimacy and further strengthen regional security.

Editorial Perspective

India is worthy of this expectation. If, in the coming period, India becomes self-reliant and well equipped in all fields, it will undoubtedly lead not only South Asia but the entire world. For this, Indian rulers must take far-sighted decisions from now on and act accordingly.