Japan and Sri Lanka Deepen Defence Ties Amid Indo-Pacific Focus

Japanese Defence Minister Gen Nakatani visited Colombo on Sunday, meeting Sri Lankan Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya to strengthen bilateral defence cooperation at a time when regional security is at a turning point. The two nations agreed to enhance cooperation between the defence forces of the two nations, citing a shared commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific-a priority as China's influence grows in the region with major port development.

 

Nakatani highlighted the importance of maritime security and the rule of law, making proposals for Japanese experts to hold a seminar on the Law of the Sea and for Sri Lankan troops to join Japanese disaster exercises. Intelligence sharing and joint efforts to enhance regional stability and prosperity were also on the agenda during the visit. Top-level talks included senior government officials from both countries, such as Japanese Ambassador Akio Isomata.

 

Source: NHK World, Daily Mirror, The Morning