Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to Sri Lanka resulted in the signing of seven key agreements encompassing defense, energy, digital infrastructure, health, and trade sectors.

These developments come amid heightened discussions in certain Indian media about China's increasing influence in the Indian Ocean region.

However, experts suggest that such interpretations may misrepresent the context of the bilateral talks.

During the visit, Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake affirmed his country's commitment to ensuring that its territory is not used in ways that could threaten India’s security.

This statement has been characterized by some media as a response to concerns regarding China's growing presence in the region.

Experts emphasize that the focus of Modi's visit was primarily on fostering India-Sri Lanka relations rather than an attempt to counter China's engagement.

Qian Feng, director of the research department at the National Strategy Institute at Tsinghua University, noted the outdated nature of assessments that regard South Asian nations solely within the lens of Indian influence, highlighting China's significant and legitimate partnerships with these countries.

Sri Lanka and China have a history of cooperative engagement.

In January, President Dissanayake visited China, where both sides underscored the importance of deepening their strategic cooperative partnership.

They agreed on initiatives to build a community with a shared future and signed multiple agreements as part of China's Belt and Road Initiative.

Chinese officials have expressed that China values its relationship with Sri Lanka, viewing it as a vital component of regional diplomacy.

Guo Jiakun, a spokesperson from the Chinese Foreign Ministry, commented on the significant opportunities for developing bilateral relations.

Lin Minwang, a deputy director of the Center for South Asian Studies at Fudan University, pointed out that the Sri Lankan assurances do not indicate a shift in policy favoring one country over another.

Instead, such diplomatic communications are reflective of a broader strategy aimed at maintaining balance and safeguarding national interests.

Overall, analysts suggest that the outcomes of Modi's visit were largely oriented toward economic assistance and addressing mutual development goals, indicating a pragmatic approach to regional cooperation.