A high-level Sri Lankan defence delegation, led by Deputy Minister of Defence Major General Aruna Jayasekara (Retd), began a two-day official visit to Japan to participate in the 2nd Japan–Sri Lanka Defence Dialogue, underscoring the enduring strategic and diplomatic relationship between the two nations. The delegation’s visit focused on enhancing defence collaboration, maritime security, and mutual capacity building.
During the visit, the Sri Lankan team engaged in a series of bilateral meetings with senior officials from the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs and was welcomed by Sri Lanka’s Ambassador to Japan, Prof. Janak Kumarasinghe. On 17 March, Deputy Minister Jayasekara met with Japan’s State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Kunimitsu Ayano, to outline Sri Lanka’s defence reform initiatives, emphasizing alignment of national security priorities with public expectations. In response, the Japanese official praised Sri Lanka’s efforts to promote good governance, eradicate corruption, uphold the rule of law, and maintain a rules-based international order while adhering to its non-aligned foreign policy.
Later that day, the delegation held a high-level meeting with Japanese defence dignitaries, including State Minister of Defence Miyazaki Masahisa, Vice Minister of Defence for International Affairs Kano Koji, and the Chief of Staff of the Japan Maritime Self Defense Force. Discussions focused on deepening defence cooperation, strengthening maritime security, and expanding capacity building programs for Sri Lanka’s defence sector. Key topics included cultural exchanges, the Official Security Assistance program, and joint initiatives to combat transnational crimes at sea, with a special focus on enhancing the capabilities of the Sri Lanka Coast Guard.
The Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy and senior officials from the Deputy Minister of Defence’s office were present, reinforcing the commitment of both nations to a long-term strategic partnership rooted in defence diplomacy and regional stability. The visit marks a significant step in consolidating bilateral relations and advancing joint efforts to address maritime and security challenges in the Indo-Pacific region.
