India, Sri Lanka Discuss Maritime Issues, Bilateral Matters in Colombo

Acquino Vimal, Additional Secretary in the United Nations Economic and Social Division of India’s Ministry of External Affairs, met Tilani Silva, Legal Adviser at Sri Lanka’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, for the discussions.

The Indian High Commission in Colombo said the two officials exchanged views on maritime matters as well as bilateral issues and cooperation in multilateral forums.

Maritime cooperation remains an important component of India-Sri Lanka relations. The two countries have also maintained regular engagement on maritime security, connectivity and other issues affecting the Indian Ocean region.

The latest discussions come amid continued cooperation between the two countries across security, development and connectivity. Earlier this month, India’s Defence Minister Rajnath Singh visited Sri Lanka for discussions with the country’s leadership, with maritime and defence cooperation among the areas highlighted by the Indian High Commission.

India has also continued development and humanitarian assistance to Sri Lanka. Recent initiatives include support for healthcare infrastructure and other projects, while the two countries have maintained cooperation on maritime connectivity.

In September, India extended financial assistance for the passenger ferry service between Nagapattinam and Kankesanthurai for another year. The support, provided through a viability gap funding mechanism, is aimed at maintaining the affordability and operational sustainability of the service.

India has also continued cooperation with Sri Lanka on maritime security and law enforcement. Earlier this month, officials from the two countries held talks on combating illicit drug trafficking through maritime routes, sharing intelligence and strengthening coordination between their respective agencies.

The Indian High Commission has described connectivity as an important focus of the bilateral relationship, encompassing maritime, air, energy, trade, digital and people-to-people links.

The latest meeting in Colombo adds to the continuing official engagement between India and Sri Lanka on bilateral and regional issues, particularly those linked to the maritime domain and cooperation in international forums.