India, Sri Lanka Deepen Defence Ties as Rajnath Singh Wraps Colombo Visit

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh met Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake in Colombo on Wednesday, in the first visit by an Indian defence minister to the island nation in 38 years. The talks covered the full spectrum of bilateral ties, with a focus on regional security and prosperity.

Singh conveyed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's greetings and congratulated Dissanayake on completing two years in office. The two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to work jointly for the safety and development of the region, describing India and Sri Lanka as "civilisational twins" and close maritime partners.

The Sri Lankan President recalled his interactions with PM Modi and reiterated that Sri Lanka would not allow its territory to be used for activities against India's security interests. He also thanked India for relief assistance provided under Operation Sagar Bandhu during Cyclone Ditwah and for a comprehensive rehabilitation package.

During the visit, the two sides virtually inaugurated three Bailey Bridges constructed by Indian defence forces. They also exchanged MoUs covering the upgradation of six L70 air defence guns for the Sri Lankan Air Force under an Indian grant, as well as cooperation between the National Cadet Corps (NCC) and National Defence Colleges (NDC) of both countries.

The L70 gun upgrade is expected to strengthen the air defence of critical assets in Sri Lanka. The NDC MoU will facilitate academic knowledge-sharing, while the NCC pact formalises a youth exchange programme.

Speaking to the Indian diaspora on Tuesday, Singh said India would always stand firmly with Sri Lanka in times of crisis, underlining the relationship's foundation in shared history and culture. He is leading a high-level delegation of officials from the defence and external affairs ministries.