Sri Lanka, March 23 -- A Sri Lankan parliamentary delegation led by Parliamentarian S. M. Marikkar called on Indian Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla at Parliament House, underlining efforts to strengthen bilateral ties between the two nations.

During the meeting, Speaker Birla emphasized that India and Sri Lanka share a deep civilisational, cultural, and linguistic legacy spanning thousands of years, describing Sri Lanka as a close and valued neighbour.

Highlighting India's rapid development, the Speaker noted that sustained focus on research, innovation, and infrastructure has driven the country's growth despite global uncertainties. He reiterated India's commitment to becoming a developed nation by 2047.

Birla also reaffirmed India's 'Neig...