Rajnath Singh meets Dissanayake in Colombo, discusses maritime security

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh met Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake in Colombo, in what is being seen as an important step toward strengthening military and bilateral ties between India and Sri Lanka. Singh is currently on a three-day visit to Sri Lanka, and the meeting is considered significant for defence cooperation, maritime security and peace in the Indian Ocean region. Sri Lanka holds a special place in India's Neighbourhood First policy, and the meeting took place against this backdrop.

After the meeting, Singh shared details on the social media platform X. He said the meeting was very positive and meaningful. On behalf of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he conveyed greetings to President Dissanayake, and also specially congratulated him on his government successfully completing two years in office. The two leaders held detailed talks on bilateral trade, challenges in the maritime sector and military cooperation.

Singh underlined the importance of the centuries-old ties between India and Sri Lanka. In his view, India and Sri Lanka are not merely geographical neighbours but civilisational twins, culturally connected, and important maritime partners. Both countries reiterated their commitment to working together for the development and welfare of their citizens.

Maritime security is considered a highly sensitive subject for both India and Sri Lanka. Given the growing geopolitical developments and security challenges in the Indian Ocean, the meeting saw agreement on increasing cooperation between the two navies, exchanging information and holding joint exercises. India made clear that Sri Lanka is a trusted and important partner for maintaining peace and prosperity in the Indian Ocean region.

India's Neighbourhood First policy is not limited to military cooperation alone but is linked to Sri Lanka's overall development. India has always stood by Sri Lanka in times of crisis. At the meeting, both leaders said cooperation between the two countries is not confined to border security, but its main goals include economic cooperation, infrastructure development, partnership in the energy sector and improving the living standards of people in both countries.

Singh's three-day visit to Sri Lanka is seen as a symbol of India's strong foreign policy. It is believed that this dialogue between India and Sri Lanka will further elevate the strategic partnership between the two countries in maintaining peace, security and regional stability in the Indian Ocean.