A Lankan Member of Parliament has called on his fellow citizens to support New Delhi’s stance against what he described as US President Donald Trump’s “selective and unfair trade” policies, adding that “India’s courage inspires Asia” in reference to India’s enormous assistance during Sri Lanka’s historic economic crisis.

In light of India’s continuing concerns with the US over the new tariffs on Indian imports, prominent economist and Colombo MP Harsha de Silva asked fellow parliamentarians to show respect for India. He recounted how, amid Sri Lanka’s economic crisis, India was the sole country to provide vital aid.

“Don’t make fun of India. They were the only ones who helped us when we needed it, so don’t make fun of them when they’re struggling. Until the obese woman sings, it won’t be over. We saw you giggling. Avoid laughing. India and we both anticipated that the tariffs will drop to 15%,” the Member of Parliament was quoted as saying by the Daily Mirror on Monday.

Silva supported New Delhi’s stance on US tariffs and emphasized the close ties between India and Sri Lanka in his speech to the Lankan Parliament.

“Call out the Govt in Sri Lankan Parliament for mocking India’s bold stand against Trump’s trade tariffs,” the politician from Sri Lanka wrote with a video of his address in parliament on X. Our real ally, India, supported us during our worst moments. Instead of laughing, we ought to respect their struggle. Asia is inspired by India’s bravery.

Strong people-to-people relationships, shared history, religion, and culture, as well as civilizational ties, form the foundation of the relationship between India and Sri Lanka. It has developed into a tight technical, cultural, and economic collaboration in the modern era. Being a key component of India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy, Sri Lanka and India have a long-standing relationship based on mutual trust and goodwill.

Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath has referred to India as “a trusted partner” and acknowledged the role that New Delhi has played over the years, including helping the island nation get through the recent economic crisis and supporting it in times of need.