India and Sri Lanka reaffirmed their strong defence partnership and close cooperation as Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh visited the Ministry of Defence at the Defence Headquarters Complex (DHQC) in Kotte yesterday (09).
The visit highlighted the longstanding friendship between the two countries and their continued commitment to strengthening defence cooperation in the years ahead, the Defence Ministry said in a statement.
Indian Minister Rajnath Singh was accorded a ceremonial Guard of Honour and warmly received by Deputy Minister of Defence Major General Aruna Jayasekara (Retd), during the visit.
Addressing the gathering, Major General Jayasekara emphasised India’s longstanding support to Sri Lanka across a wide range of areas, highlighting the strong defence ties and close cooperation that continue to underpin relations between the two countries.
He also expressed appreciation for India’s continued assistance to Sri Lanka, particularly during emergencies and challenging situations, underscoring the importance of India’s support to Sri Lanka’s security and resilience.
Speaking on the occasion, Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh reaffirmed the close and longstanding relationship between India and Sri Lanka, stressing that the strong bonds of friendship and cooperation between the two countries would continue to strengthen in the years ahead.
The engagement comes amid sustained cooperation between the two countries in the defence and security spheres, reflecting the depth of their bilateral relationship and their shared commitment to maintaining close ties.
Secretary to the Ministry of Defence and Additional Secretary (Civil Security and Development) Indika Wijegunawardana, Indian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka Santosh Jha, Commanders of the tri-forces, heads of institutions under the Ministry of Defence, members of the high-ranking Indian defence delegation and senior Defence Ministry officials were also present.
The visit served to reaffirm the enduring nature of India-Sri Lanka defence relations and the two countries’ continued commitment to closer cooperation.
