India and Sri Lanka reaffirmed their commitment to work together in countering traditional and non-traditional threats and ensuring a free, open, safe and secure Indian Ocean Region (IOR), underscoring the common challenges faced by the two countries in IOR.
During his interaction with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Sri Lanka President Anura Kumara Disanayaka, who is on a visit to India, reiterated that Sri Lanka would not permit its territory to be used in any manner inimical to the security of India and regional stability.
India has been expanding its overall defence and strategic ties with Sri Lanka amid concerns over China's attempts to increase its military presence in the Indian Ocean. It is to be noted that the docking of the Chinese missile and satellite tracking ship 'Yuan Wang' at Hambantota port in August 2022 had triggered a diplomatic row between India and Sri Lanka. Another Chinese warship docked at the Colombo port in August last year.
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Both leaders acknowledged the importance of regular dialogue based on mutual trust and transparency and giving primacy to each other’s security concerns.
Modi and Disanayaka agreed to advance maritime and security collaboration in training, exchange programs, ship visits, bilateral exercises and assistance to augment defence capabilities.
President Disanayaka thanked India for its support through the provision of a Dornier Aircraft for maritime surveillance; and establishment of the Maritime Rescue and Coordination Centre in Sri Lanka, a statement from the PMO read.
India said it will continue its commitment to working closely with Sri Lanka in advancing its defence and maritime security needs and extending necessary assistance towards augmenting its capabilities to address its maritime challenges.
Taking cognizance of various security threats such as terrorism, narcotics smuggling, and money laundering, both countries agreed to further strengthen the ongoing efforts in training, capacity building, and intelligence and information sharing.