Sri Lanka–Japan defence ties strengthened at high-level meeting in Tokyo

Major General Aruna Jayasekara (Retd.), who is the Deputy Minister of Defence, met with Japan's Minister of Defense, Shinjirō Koizumi, at the Ministry of Defence in Tokyo on Wednesday, October 18. This important meeting between Sri Lanka and Japan aimed to strengthen their defence cooperation, focusing on maritime security, building disaster management capabilities, and ensuring stability in the Indo-Pacific area, according to the Ministry of Defence. During the discussions, the Japanese Defence Minister pointed out the growing need for closer cooperation between Japan and Sri Lanka to maintain peace and security in the Indo-Pacific, particularly under the concept of a “Free and Open Indo-Pacific.” Deputy Minister Jayasekara responded by highlighting Sri Lanka’s crucial location in the Indian Ocean and its important role in protecting regional maritime security. He reaffirmed Sri Lanka’s commitment to deepening defence ties with Japan, especially in ways that support regional peace and stability in line with international laws and diplomacy. Both officials discussed major regional and global issues, including the situation in the Middle East, and acknowledged the progress being made in their defence relations. The Deputy Minister emphasized Sri Lanka’s policy of neutrality and non-alignment, as well as its dedication to adhering to international norms and legal agreements. They also noted the recent visit of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) destroyer JS Onami to Colombo and the successful goodwill naval exercise conducted with the Sri Lanka Navy. The meeting ended with both sides agreeing to continue their discussions quickly, with a focus on improving defence cooperation. They identified key areas for partnership, including enhancing maritime security through joint exercises, ship visits, and participation in naval programs. They also discussed building capacity in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) and promoting personnel exchanges, including ongoing training opportunities at Japan’s National Defense Academy (NDA). During the meeting, Deputy Minister Jayasekara expressed Sri Lanka’s gratitude to the Government of Japan for its long-term support, especially during the recent cyclone “Ditwa.” He thanked Japan for its humanitarian assistance during past disasters and for its ongoing contributions to Sri Lanka’s development and resilience.