Defence Minister Rajnath Singh started a three-day official visit to Sri Lanka on Tuesday to discuss various issues with the country's leadership and engage with the Indian community in Colombo.
He is leading a high-level delegation including senior officials from India's Ministry of Defence and Ministry of External Affairs.
The Ministry of Defence stated this visit aims to enhance the traditionally strong bilateral relations, focusing on maritime and defence partnerships that benefit both nations.
Rajnath Singh highlighted that India and Sri Lanka share deep civilisational bonds and a multifaceted partnership, encompassing regional security, defence, economic cooperation, trade, and strong people-to-people connections.
He noted that India supported Sri Lanka during its economic crisis and was among the first to provide aid after Cyclone Ditwah in 2025, reinforcing India's commitment to the 'Neighbourhood First' policy and Prime Minister Narendra Modi's MAHASAGAR vision.
Following Cyclone Ditwah, India announced a $450 million reconstruction package for Sri Lanka, covering restoration of infrastructure, housing, health, education, agriculture, and disaster preparedness.
Prior to the Defence Minister's visit, Sri Lankan Navy Commander Vice-Admiral Damian Fernando visited India in August, meeting Chief of Defence Staff General N.S. Raja Subramani to review bilateral defence cooperation.
The interaction explored expanding joint military training, capacity building, and regional security collaboration to strengthen the India–Sri Lanka strategic partnership.
Vice-Admiral Fernando also held discussions with Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh on progress under the Bilateral Defence Cooperation Plan and met Indian Navy chief Admiral Krishna Swaminathan to discuss enhancing maritime security cooperation.
During these talks, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the Indian Ocean region in alignment with India's MAHASAGAR vision.
