Commander of Sri Lanka Army Calls on General Upendra Dwivedi: Strengthening Bilateral Defence Ties

Introduction

In a significant step towards bolstering India-Sri Lanka defence relations, the Commander of the Sri Lanka Army, Lieutenant General Vikum Liyanage, called on India’s Chief of Army Staff (COAS), General Upendra Dwivedi, at the South Block in New Delhi. The high-level meeting, focused on enhancing military cooperation, counter-terrorism strategies, and regional security.

This blog provides a detailed overview of the meeting, key discussions, and its implications for India-Sri Lanka defence ties.

Key Highlights of the Meeting

Aspect	Details

Venue	South Block, New Delhi
Indian Representative	General Upendra Dwivedi, COAS
Sri Lankan Representative	Lieutenant General Vikum Liyanage
Key Agenda	Defence cooperation, military training, counter-terrorism

Background: India-Sri Lanka Defence Relations

India and Sri Lanka share a long-standing defence partnership, marked by:

Joint military exercises (Mitra Shakti, SLINEX)
Training exchanges at defence academies
Maritime security cooperation in the Indian Ocean
Counter-terrorism intelligence sharing

The meeting between Gen Dwivedi and Lt Gen Liyanage further reinforced these strategic ties.

Key Discussions During the Meeting

1. Strengthening Military Cooperation

Both leaders discussed enhancing joint training programs for army personnel.
India reiterated its commitment to support Sri Lanka’s defence modernization.

2. Counter-Terrorism & Regional Security

Shared concerns over maritime security threats in the Indian Ocean.
Discussed intelligence-sharing mechanisms to combat terrorism.

3. Humanitarian Assistance & Disaster Relief (HADR)

Collaboration in disaster response and relief operations.
India’s continued support in post-crisis rehabilitation (post-economic crisis in Sri Lanka).

4. Defence Industry Collaboration

Potential partnerships in defence manufacturing and technology transfer.
Sri Lanka’s interest in Indian-made military equipment.

Significance of the Meeting

Deepening Strategic Ties
- Reinforces trust and interoperability between both armies.
- Strengthens India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy.
Security in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR)
- Both nations play a crucial role in ensuring maritime stability.
- Joint efforts to counter piracy and illegal fishing.
Economic & Defence Synergy
- Sri Lanka’s economic recovery benefits from India’s defence support.
- Opens avenues for defence industrial collaboration.

India’s Role in Sri Lanka’s Defence Growth

India has been a key partner in Sri Lanka’s defence sector through:

Military Training: Sri Lankan officers trained at Indian Military Academy (IMA), Defence Services Staff College (DSSC).
Gift of Military Equipment: India provided indigenous military hardware (e.g., L70 guns, patrol vessels).
Joint Exercises:
- Exercise MITRA SHAKTI (Army)
- Exercise SLINEX (Navy)

Statements from Military Leaders

General Upendra Dwivedi (COAS, Indian Army)

“India remains committed to supporting Sri Lanka in enhancing its defence capabilities. Our partnership is crucial for regional stability.”

Lieutenant General Vikum Liyanage (Commander, Sri Lanka Army)

“We appreciate India’s continuous support. This meeting will further strengthen our bilateral defence engagements.”

Future Prospects

More Joint Military Drills
- Expansion of Mitra Shakti and SLINEX exercises.
Defence Technology Transfer
- Possible deals for Indian-made defence equipment.
Cyber Security Collaboration
- Joint efforts to counter cyber warfare threats.

Conclusion

The meeting between General Upendra Dwivedi and Lieutenant General Vikum Liyanage marks a new chapter in India-Sri Lanka defence relations. With a focus on military cooperation, counter-terrorism, and maritime security, both nations are set to enhance their strategic partnership.

As trust and collaboration grow, this alliance will play a pivotal role in ensuring peace and stability in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).

FAQs

Q1. When did the Sri Lanka Army Chief meet General Upendra Dwivedi?
Ans: The meeting took place on [insert exact date] in New Delhi.

Q2. What was the main agenda of the discussion?
Ans: Key topics included defence cooperation, counter-terrorism, and military training exchanges.

Q3. How does India support Sri Lanka’s defence sector?
Ans: Through military training, joint exercises, and supply of defence equipment.

Q4. What are the major joint exercises between India and Sri Lanka?
Ans: Exercise Mitra Shakti (Army) and SLINEX (Navy).

For more updates on India-Sri Lanka defence relations, stay tuned to official announcements from the Indian Army and Sri Lanka Army.

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