Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Sri Lanka on Thursday to take part in a United Nations Buddhist event, officials said.
Modi is due to be the chief guest of the UN international Vesak, or Buddha Day, celebrations on Friday, which is taking place in Sri Lanka for the first time in 14 years.
"This event also is a tribute to the contribution that Buddhism has made, and continues to make, towards the spirituality and the well-being of humanity," Modi said in a message before his arrival.
During his near 24-hour stay, Modi is also due to open an Indian-funded hospital in the central part of the country before leaving on Friday evening.
The Vesak celebrations commemorate the birth, enlightenment and death of the Buddha.
Modi's visit to Sri Lanka comes amidst plans to sign as many as 10 agreements on trade and investment between the two countries. Among them are road projects, investments in oil storage facilities and the setting up of industrial zones.
Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena said on Wednesday that no discussions will take place during the Indian prime minister's visit relating to the projects. 
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