The U.S. Embassy in Sri Lanka has announced that Admiral Samuel J. Paparo, Commander of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command (INDOPACOM), will visit Colombo from March 19 to 21. The visit aims to strengthen the U.S.-Sri Lanka security partnership and discuss regional stability in the Indo-Pacific.
During his stay, Admiral Paparo is expected to engage with senior Sri Lankan government officials and military leaders. The discussions will focus on deepening security cooperation and addressing shared regional challenges. His visit underscores the United States’ commitment to bolstering defense ties and promoting a secure Indo-Pacific region.
Admiral Paparo, a native of Morton, Pennsylvania, has had a distinguished career in the U.S. Navy. A 1987 graduate of Villanova University, he has served in multiple high-ranking positions and gained extensive operational experience. He holds advanced degrees in International Studies and Systems Analysis and is a decorated U.S. Naval Aviator and TOPGUN graduate with over 6,000 flight hours and 1,100 carrier landings.
His operational command tours include leading Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 195 in Japan, commanding Carrier Air Wing 7, and serving as Commander of Carrier Strike Group Ten. He has also held key ground roles, including commanding a Provincial Reconstruction Team in Afghanistan. Additionally, he has served in various leadership capacities across multiple U.S. Navy and joint force operations, including U.S. Central Command and U.S. Naval Forces Central Command.
Admiral Paparo took command of U.S. Indo-Pacific Command in May 2024, becoming the 27th leader of the nation’s oldest and largest combatant command. INDOPACOM oversees the security operations of 380,000 U.S. military personnel across 36 nations and 14 time zones, covering 60% of the world’s population.
His visit to Sri Lanka highlights the growing defense ties between the two nations as they collaborate on maritime security, regional stability, and countering emerging security threats in the Indo-Pacific.
The visit reflects the strategic importance of Sri Lanka in Indo-Pacific security dynamics. The U.S. continues to emphasize its commitment to working with regional partners to ensure a free and open Indo-Pacific.
