India had said, earlier this month, that it desires normal neighbourly relations with Pakistan in an environment free of terror, hostility, and violence.

Rajapaksa’s office released a voice recording of the remarks he made during the summit with Prime Minister Modi.

The first Modi-Rajapaksa virtual summit on September 26 is likely to build on common concerns like security, economy and tourism while accepting that China will continue to play a role in the island state.

India’s security concerns would not stand in the way of Sri Lanka’s economic and commercial relations with China and Pakistan.

The Rajapaksa government will naturally do a tightrope walk between the India and China and take advantage of the situation.

The official results declared showed that the Sri Lanka People's Party (SLPP) alone had won 145 seats and with its allies it had 150 seats, a two thirds majority in the 225-member parliament.

A two-thirds majority for Rajapaksa brothers’ party could allow them to amend the Constitution and restore presidential powers that were diluted in 2015.

PM Modi said the two countries have decided to deepen cooperation to combat terrorism.

Due to arrive in India early next month, Rajapaksa has decided to visit a number of Hindu and Buddhist religious places.

President Rajapaksa will embark on his first foreign tour with a visit to India on November 29 at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.