Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh held talks with President Anura Kumara Dissanayake at the Presidential Secretariat today (09), as his three-day visit to Sri Lanka places renewed attention on defence and security cooperation between the two neighbouring countries.
The discussions centred on strengthening existing defence ties and maintaining close security engagement between Colombo and New Delhi. Both sides stressed the importance of continued cooperation and strong bilateral relations.
Singh arrived in Sri Lanka yesterday afternoon, beginning a visit that will continue until September 10. He was welcomed at Bandaranaike International Airport by Deputy Minister of Defence Maj. Gen. Aruna Jayasekara (Retd.) and Indian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka Santosh Jha.
The Indian Defence Minister is also expected to meet Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, Defence Ministry Secretary Air Vice Marshal (Retd.) Sampath Thuyacontha and other senior government officials during his stay.
Indian media reports have indicated that the implementation of the India-Sri Lanka defence cooperation agreement signed during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Sri Lanka last year is likely to feature in discussions during the visit.
Singh’s trip is also significant as it is the first visit by an Indian Defence Minister to Sri Lanka in 38 years.
Traffic Restrictions Announced in Colombo
Authorities have introduced special traffic arrangements in Colombo in connection with the visiting minister.
The Colombo Traffic Division said restrictions will be imposed on several major roads at different times as Singh travels to various locations during his visit.
India Pledges Support During Times of Crisis
The defence minister also used a community reception in Colombo yesterday to underline India’s commitment to Sri Lanka, assuring that New Delhi would extend its full support whenever the country faces a crisis.
Singh described Sri Lanka as a “very close friend” of India and pointed to the longstanding and civilisational connections between the two nations.
He stressed that maintaining close relations with neighbouring countries remains particularly important, noting that while friendships may change, geographical neighbours remain constant.
Singh further said India’s traditional approach has been to regard neighbouring countries as family members. He also expressed his appreciation at meeting members of the Indian diaspora living in Sri Lanka.
The visit comes as the two countries seek to maintain and further develop their longstanding defence, security and bilateral relationship.
Leave your comments
Login to post a comment
Post comment as a guest