Prime Minister Narendra Modi has stressed upon close economic and strategic cooperation between India and Sri Lanka.<br />'' <br />'' During his short visit to the Island Nation on Sunday, the Prime Minister held a bilateral meeting with Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena.<br />'' <br />'' The two leaders held discussion on several issues including unity in efforts for eradicating terrorism, maritime security in the Indian Ocean Region and cooperation in economic development.<br />'' <br />'' Mr Modi also interacted with members of the Indian Community at India House in Colombo. He emphasised the important role played by the community in strengthening bilateral relations.<br />'' <br />'' He praised the endeavours of Indian diaspora for strengthening country's image in the world. The Prime Minister said, democracy is part of India's ethos adding that his government has received a decisive mandate.<br />'' <br />'' Mr Modi also visited St. Anthony church which was the target of Easter Sunday attacks and offered his condolences to the victims.<br />'' <br />'' In a tweet, the Prime Minister said, he is confident that Sri Lanka will rise again and cowardly acts of terror cannot defeat the spirit of the island nation. He said, India stands in solidarity with the people of Sri Lanka.<br />'' <br />'' AIR Colombo correspondent reports, the Prime Minister reached Colombo Sunday morning on the second leg of two-nation tour after completing his Maldives visit. This was Mr Modi's maiden trip abroad following his re-election as the Prime Minister.<br />'' <br />'' With this, the Prime Minister successfully concluded his two-day visit to Maldives and Sri Lanka. In a tweet, External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said, the visit demonstrated India's priority to the Neighbourhood First policy.<br />'' <br />'' In Maldives on Saturday, Mr Modi said, India wants every nation in the region to develop, prosper and become self-dependent. He said, India will extend fullest possible help for Maldives.<br />'' <br />'' Addressing the Maldivian Parliament, the Majlis, the Prime Minister stressed on the urgent need for a global conference on terrorism. Mr Modi also held discussions with President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih in Male.<br />'' <br />'' The two countries reaffirmed their stand to fight terrorism in all its forms. They also agreed to further enhance close cooperation in various areas and intensify economic and cultural relations.<br />'' <br />'' Five MoUs and a technical agreement were signed between the two countries. <br />''  <br />