Colombo: A high-level delegation from the Institute for Security Governance (ISG), USA, accompanied by representatives from the United States Embassy, met with the Acting Minister of Defence Major General Aruna Jayasekara (Retd) at his office in Colombo. The meeting focused on ongoing Institutional Capacity Building projects with personnel from the Sri Lanka military.

According to Ministry of Defence – Sri Lanka, the ISG is an entity within the U.S. Department of Defence that evaluates, reviews, and develops projects with various branches of the Sri Lankan military, including the Sri Lanka Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, National Defence College, Kothelawala Defence University, and Defence Services Command and Staff College.

The delegation, led by Regional Program Leader for the Indo-Pacific Region Michael Rembold, included key figures such as Sri Lanka Country Program Coordinator Matt Ashley, Deputy CPC Daniel Simpson, and Subject Matter Expert Oscar De Soto. Also present were Col. Tony Nelson, Defence Attach© of the US Embassy, and Cdr Sean Lin, Chief of the Office of Defence Cooperation.

The discussions highlighted the collaborative efforts between ISG and Sri Lankan counterparts, fostering trust and mutual understanding. This environment has provided insights into Sri Lanka’s defence priorities and decision-making processes, laying a foundation for future partnerships.

The meeting also explored interests in future collaborative efforts, emphasizing a shared commitment to regional stability and security. The enduring partnership between Sri Lanka and the United States in the defence sector was underscored, highlighting mutual growth and understanding.