Colombo, Sept. 9 -- Sri Lanka's Leader of Opposition Sajith Premadasa on Wednesday lauded India's consistent support to Sri Lanka during times of crisis, describing New Delhi as a "very close partner" and saying the bilateral relationship is "very special" and should be further strengthened.

Speaking to ANI after his meeting with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Premadasa said the discussions were "very constructive" and "very progressive", highlighting India's role as a first responder during Sri Lanka's economic crisis, the COVID-19 pandemic and Cyclone Ditwah.

"My meeting with Rajnath Singh was very constructive, very progressive. We have a very strong relationship with India. It is a special relationship. We are very close partners,"...