India wants to identify newer areas for cooperation with GoSL, bolster armed forces

The first ever India-Sri Lanka defence seminar and exhibition was held at the Taj Colombo yesterday (07) in keeping with the Government of India’s endeavour to deepen ties with Sri Lanka through inclusive and collaborative engagement. The event was meant to identify newer areas of cooperation for economic revival whilst ensuring capacity building of Sri Lanka Armed Forces, the Indian High Commission spokesperson said.

India displayed a range of equipment at the event. State Minister of Defence Pramitha Bandara Tennakoon, attended the event as the Chief Guest.

The official said that the grand event included a seminar that highlighted the capability and capacities of the two countries in defence equipment manufacturing.

The official pointed out that the Sri Lanka Armed Forces have been successfully operating a wide range of Indian defence equipment, like Indra Radar, Advanced Offshore Patrol Vessels, L 70 Guns, Dornier Aircraft and Army training simulators.

Similarly, the Indian Armed Forces use Fast Interceptor Crafts and refit of Floating Dock at Colombo. More recently, the Government of India has committed to the supply of Floating Dock, Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre and Dornier aircraft which would ensure capacity building of Sri Lanka Armed Forces.