Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya has stressed the need for international cooperation to combat illegal activities in the Indian Ocean, including drug trafficking, illegal migration, and piracy, while highlighting Sri Lanka’s role in ensuring maritime security.
She made these remarks at the Twelfth International Maritime Conference – Galle Dialogue 2025, held under the theme “Maritime Outlook of the Indian Ocean under Changing Dynamics” at the Navy Wave and Lake Banquet Hall in Welisara.
“The Indian Ocean is one of the most strategic maritime regions in the world. It is both a stage for competition and a platform for cooperation. Sri Lanka’s aim is to work with all partners to make the Indian Ocean a region that is peaceful, secure, sustainable, and governed on the basis of justice and cooperation,” the Prime Minister said.
Dr. Amarasuriya emphasized that climate change, rising sea levels, overfishing, and pollution threaten biodiversity, human security, and economic stability, underscoring the importance of marine conservation and effective maritime governance.
On combating drug trafficking, she noted:
“This is an important responsibility of our Navy and Coast Guard. The Government is committed to safeguarding national security and public health, and preventive measures are already being implemented.”
The Prime Minister further announced that the Government has allocated Rs. 92.5 billion to the Navy in the 2025 Defence Budget, a 12% increase from the previous year, describing it as a clear commitment to strengthening maritime security.
She praised the Navy’s dedication in regular patrols, intelligence-based operations, and narcotics seizures, but stressed that no nation can tackle these challenges alone.
“Freedom of navigation, maritime security, and responses to piracy and trafficking all depend on coordination and trust-building between navies and coast guards. Sri Lanka calls upon all stakeholders to contribute to a cooperative security framework founded on transparency and respect for international law,” she added.
The event was attended by Defence Deputy Minister Major General Aruna Jayasekara, Admiral of the Fleet Wasantha Karannagoda, Defence Secretary AVM Sampath Thuyacontha, Indian Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi, as well as the commanders of the Army, Navy, and Air Force, along with senior Tri-Forces officials.
