India and Sri Lanka are taking significant steps to deepen defence and security cooperation, marking a new phase in their long-standing bilateral relationship. In a series of high-level meetings held on Thursday (June 5), senior officials from both nations reaffirmed their commitment to enhanced collaboration across key strategic areas.
Indian Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, heading a high-level delegation, met separately with Sri Lanka’s Deputy Minister of Defence, Major General (Retd) Aruna Jayasekara, and Defence Secretary Air Vice Marshal (Retd) Sampath Thuyacontha. The Indian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, Santosh Jha, was also present, underscoring the importance both sides place on strengthening defence ties.
The discussions covered a wide range of mutual interests, including maritime security, counter-terrorism, defence training, capacity building, disaster response, and humanitarian assistance. Both sides placed strong emphasis on tackling illegal fishing and enhancing surveillance operations in the Indian Ocean region.
Sri Lankan officials expressed deep appreciation for India’s continued support, particularly during times of crisis. Deputy Minister Jayasekara highlighted the historic friendship between the two neighbours, while Defence Secretary Thuyacontha conveyed gratitude for India’s role in bolstering Sri Lanka’s defence infrastructure.
In turn, Secretary Singh reiterated India’s steadfast commitment to regional peace and stability, vowing to build upon the existing defence partnership. He emphasized India’s readiness to share knowledge and resources, particularly under the “AatmaNirbhar Bharat” (self-reliant India) initiative, which promotes indigenous defence manufacturing and research.
Both nations agreed to continue regular high-level engagements and explore new avenues for cooperation. Sharing of intelligence and enhancing operational coordination were identified as critical to addressing evolving security challenges in the region.
India has already extended substantial support to Sri Lanka’s armed forces, including training programmes and the provision of defence equipment such as L-70 anti-aircraft guns, Indra Radar systems, and Offshore Patrol Vessels.
The meetings signify a strategic alignment between India and Sri Lanka in safeguarding the Indian Ocean region. Strengthened maritime cooperation, joint military exercises, and increased interoperability are expected to be key pillars of this evolving defence partnership.
As regional security dynamics evolve, the deepening defence collaboration between India and Sri Lanka is poised to play a crucial role in maintaining peace and stability in South Asia.
