In response to media queries on the Situation in Sri Lanka, the Official Spokesperson of India's Ministry of External Affairs Shri Arindam Bagchi said expressed that India stands with the people of Sri Lanka. "India stands with the people of Sri Lanka as they seek to realize their aspirations for prosperity and progress through democratic means and values, established institutions and constitutional framework," Bagchi said in a statement. He also noted that India is Sri Lanka's closest neighbour and the two countries share deep civilizational bonds. "We are aware of the many challenges that Sri Lanka and its people have been facing, and we have stood with the Sri Lankan people as they have tried to overcome this difficult period," the statement further notes. It was also highlighted that in pursuance of the central place that Sri Lanka occupies in India's Neighbourhood First policy, India has extended this year itself an support of over US$ 3.8 billion for ameliorating the serious economic situation in Sri Lanka. In conclusion, the Spokesperson noted that India will continue to follow closely the recent developments in Sri Lanka.