Sri Lanka has a rich diplomatic, economic and defence relations with Japan. This relationship has only grown over the years, with both nations working in harmony on several fronts — trade, infrastructure, cultural exchanges and defence. Captain Yokohari the Defence Attaché from Japan has been very active in maintaining an enduring failed partnership he led a recent and highly valued engagement to assist the Sri Lanka Coast Guard through the Navy. That entire exercise demonstrates how much the Roving ambassadors can do to build bilateral relationships.
Captain Yuuki Yokohari, a vibrant young officer after taking up the duties as Defence Attaché in Sri Lanka, showed his engagement and professionalism. One of his initial working visits was to call on me, then Director General Operations and Deputy Chief of Staff Sri Lanka Navy.
Although his manner was calm and relaxed, Captain Yokohari exuded an atmosphere of serene confidence in executing his duty. At the time of this first interaction, I mentioned an acute challenge that Sri Lanka faced — the island’s vulnerability to high-impact environmental disasters, including oil spills, in its maritime spaces. Before his visit in mid-July 23, I had just been in Parliament appearing before a select committee briefing politicians about the lessons from Sri Lankan shores of our Acer Express Pearl tragedy. Being an Army officer, Captain Yokohari was not knowledgeable of a past maritime incident; however, he listened and understood the severity of what had occurred.
Then and there, I put him on the spot straight away and in all frankness asked him if Japan could afford us the necessary equipment that could be used to prevent the island from possible future oil spills due to our own frequent but offbeat oil spill hit shores (as opposed to chemical pollution), which notoriously endanger the very harbours of ours. In light of an economic downturn, Sri Lanka was not at a stage to channel rather a certain budget for this most basic requirement although there was the circulation of the National Oil Spill Contingency Plan. I assured him I would send him a list of things we needed so I reached out to Commander Prashan Perera of the Sri Lanka Coast Guard and asked for it.
Then, it resulted in Captain Yokohari showcasing his dedication and efficiency. He projected the request at the right time to reserve funds before year-end, then contacted his co-worker from Tokyo who was supervising the fund assistance, Ms. Tanaka. It was almost 6.5 million US dollars’ worth of equipment for Sri Lanka after meticulous coordination by Captain Yokohari. This would not have happened if it wasn’t for his unwavering dedication to help and deep understanding of what we needed.
This achievement is not only for the captain but also a symbol of the synergy between Sri Lanka and Japan. With his proactive initiative and sound understanding of the geopolitical and economic challenges Sri Lanka faces, were an important factor. These relationships are kept intact and taken to new levels due to the work of proficient individuals such as Captain Yokohari.
In doing what he did, I wish to personally commend myself towards extend appreciation to Captain Yokohari on the matter of the two countries’ relationship. Deploying with such courage and precision, and yet mindful of Sri Lankan affairs, is a lesson in diplomacy honed through practice. The equipment that Japan provides will help enhance the protection of the Sri Lankan maritime environment, as well as the safety and sustainability of our ports for future generations.
As we grow through outcomes which are created under workshops, it is for such Officers like Captain Yokohari that, suppose, let us take it for granted, that there are some narrow possibilities, it does not mean ‘waiting for an order to wear smart clothes.’ His activities not only have proved commitment to Sri Lanka, but his activities have further deepened and enhanced Japan’s friendship with Sri Lanka.
The admirable commitment, professionalism and hard work of Captain Yokohari is appreciated and a strong chapter in the widowed saga that is Sri Lanka Japan Relationship I must say their skills will be appreciated.
