U.S.–Sri Lanka Defence Talks Boost Maritime Coordination and Humanitarian Support

Maritime cooperation emerged as a key focus during high-level talks between the United States and Sri Lanka, as the Commander of the United States Pacific Fleet, Admiral Stephen T. Koehler, met with Sri Lanka’s Defence Secretary, Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha (Retd), at the Ministry of Defence on 19 February. The discussions highlighted the changing security dynamics in the Indian Ocean Region, with both nations recognizing the importance of strengthening collaboration to address emerging maritime challenges. Both parties stressed the need to enhance maritime domain awareness, improve information sharing, and coordinate effectively to respond to natural disasters and humanitarian crises.

The U.S. delegation reaffirmed its continued commitment to supporting Sri Lanka in tackling transnational threats, including illicit trafficking and other non-traditional security issues. The meeting also reviewed ongoing engagement between the U.S. and Sri Lankan armed forces through joint training exercises and exchange programs.

Defence Secretary Thuyacontha expressed gratitude to the United States Government for its long-standing support, including donations of TH-57 Sea Ranger 10 helicopters, the B-Type Reliance Class 210-foot Cutter, and humanitarian aid during the Ditwah cyclone. He further appreciated ongoing assistance provided through disaster relief and other humanitarian initiatives. Officials from the U.S. Embassy in Sri Lanka, including Defence Attaché Lieutenant Colonel Matthew House, participated in the discussions, underscoring the deepening bilateral cooperation in maritime security and humanitarian response.

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