Japan - Sri Lanka Defence Dialogue held

The Japan-Sri Lanka 'Defence Dialogue 2016' was held on yesterday at the Ministry,a statement from the Ministry said. The Sri Lankan delegation was led by State Minister of Defence Ruwan Wijewardene while the Japanese delegation was led by Mr. Hiroyuki Miyazawa, Vice Minister of Defence. Secretary to the Ministry of Defence Eng. Karunasena Hettiarachchi was also present at the discussion.

Both parties discussed issues related to bilateral defence matters including regional situation, defence policy and defence cooperation and exchanges.

Mr. Miyazawa said that Japan would extend its fullest support to boost defence cooperation between both countries and to strengthen maritime security of Sri Lanka. He also said that Japan would provide naval craft and training to Sri Lanka in the future to strengthen its maritime security.

State Minister Wijewardene stated that the visit of the Japanese Vice Minister and the Japanese delegation to Sri Lanka will further strengthen bilateral defence ties between the two nations. He also said that he values the long term support provided by Japan to our defence establishments and maritime security. He also expressed his gratitude for the support extended by Japan to the development of the Sri Lanka Coastguard Department.

Chief of Defence Staff, tri forces commanders, Ministry officials and Japanese embassy officials were also present at the occasion.