Colombo: The Australian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, Mathew Duckworth, paid a courtesy call on the Defence Secretary, Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha (Retd), at the Ministry of Defence. The meeting focused on enhancing bilateral defence cooperation, emphasizing maritime security and regional stability.

According to Ministry of Defence – Sri Lanka, the meeting was conducted in a cordial atmosphere where both parties discussed mutual interests and the strengthening of defence ties. The Defence Secretary expressed gratitude for Australia’s longstanding support in enhancing Sri Lanka’s defence and maritime security capabilities and reiterated Sri Lanka’s commitment to deepening cooperation in areas of shared strategic importance.

The Defence Secretary acknowledged Australia’s significant contributions to Sri Lanka’s defence sector, such as the donation of the Beechcraft King Air 350 maritime surveillance aircraft, which has improved national maritime domain awareness. He also noted Australia’s assistance in boosting the hydrographic capabilities of the Sri Lanka Navy Hydrographic Service and the ongoing vessel contributions and training support provided to the Sri Lanka Tri-Forces.

Both sides emphasized their commitment to combating human trafficking and illegal maritime activities through enhanced cooperation in capacity building, training, community engagement, and technical and equipment support. The meeting underscored the robust and evolving defence partnership between Sri Lanka and Australia, rooted in mutual trust and shared strategic objectives for regional security.