Colombo: A high-level Indian defence delegation comprising senior defence officials accompanying the Indian Defence Minister on his official visit to Sri Lanka called on the Deputy Minister of Defence, Major General Aruna Jayasekara (Retd), at the Ministry of Defence today.

According to Ministry of Defence – Sri Lanka, the Indian delegation included Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit, Vice Chief of the Air Staff, Vice Admiral Ajay Kochhar, Vice Chief of the Naval Staff, Lieutenant General Sandeep Jain, Vice Chief of the Army Staff, and Indian High Commission officials. They met with the Deputy Minister during the visit this evening.

During the cordial meeting, the Deputy Minister and the visiting delegation deliberated on a range of pertinent matters aimed at further strengthening the longstanding defence relations and cooperation between Sri Lanka and India.

The discussions also covered regional and maritime security dynamics, emerging security challenges, and the importance of strengthening disaster preparedness, response capabilities, and training and capacity building.

The Deputy Minister of Defence expressed his appreciation to the Government, people, and the armed forces of India for their continued support and assistance to Sri Lanka. He particularly acknowledged the valuable assistance extended by India during the Cyclone Ditwah disaster, noting that such support further reflects the enduring friendship, solidarity, and close bonds shared between the two countries.