India and Sri Lanka discuss maritime security cooperation

Sri Lanka Navy Commander Vice Admiral Damian Fernando conducted a three-day official visit to New Delhi to discuss strengthening maritime security and bilateral defence cooperation with Indian officials.

During the visit, Vice Admiral Fernando met with Indian Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh to review progress on the Bilateral Defence Cooperation Plan. He also held discussions with Indian Navy Chief Admiral Krishna Swaminathan regarding maritime security, institutionalised training, and capacity-building initiatives. Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), aligning with India’s ‘Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth across Regions’ (MAHASAGAR) vision.

As part of the official itinerary, the Vice Admiral was accorded a ceremonial Guard of Honour at the South Block Lawns and laid a wreath at the National War Memorial in New Delhi.