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India-Sri Lanka Boost Military Ties: Army Chiefs Discuss HADR & Security

Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi held high-level talks with Sri Lankan defence officials in Colombo to strengthen bilateral military cooperation. The discussions focused on enhancing collaboration in Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR), building on India's recent 'Operation Sagar Bandhu' during Cyclone Ditwah. The visit included the handover of military vehicles and training simulators, reinforcing defence ties. General Dwivedi also addressed officers on modern warfare and the integration of emerging technologies in military operations.

Key Points: India, Sri Lanka Strengthen Defence Cooperation & HADR Ties

  • Defence cooperation talks held
  • Focus on HADR collaboration
  • Military vehicles & simulators handed over
  • Review of global security landscape
2 min read

Army Chief Gen Dwivedi, Lankan officials discuss military ties, HADR cooperation

Indian Army Chief Gen Upendra Dwivedi meets Sri Lankan defence officials to enhance military collaboration, disaster relief cooperation, and regional security.

"further strengthening bilateral defence cooperation, deepening military-to-military ties - Indian Army"

Colombo, Jan 8

Indian Army chief General Upendra Dwivedi held talks with Sri Lankan defence officials on Thursday, focusing on cooperation in Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief and enhancing collaboration between the two nations in areas of shared interest.

The Indian Army Chief met Sri Lanka's Deputy Defence Minister Aruna Jayasekara and Defence Secretary Sampath Thuyacontha.

According to the Indian Army, the discussions centred on strengthening bilateral defence cooperation, enhancing military-to-military engagement, including cooperation in HADR and reinforcing collaboration in areas of mutual interest, underscoring the shared commitment of India and Sri Lanka towards regional security, stability and enduring defence partnership.

Earlier in November 2025, India launched Operation Sagar Bandhu as the 'First Responder' in the immediate aftermath of the devastating Cyclone Ditwah, to provide urgent HADR support to Sri Lanka.

Cyclone Ditwah triggered widespread flooding, landslides and large-scale infrastructure damage across Sri Lanka, overwhelming the country's disaster-response mechanisms.

Earlier, General Dwivedi also reviewed the Guard of Honour at the Sri Lankan Army Headquarters in Colombo and interacted with Lieutenant General BKGM Lasantha Rodrigo, Commander of the Sri Lankan Army.

"The deliberations centred on further strengthening bilateral defence cooperation, deepening military-to-military ties and reaffirming the shared commitment of both nations to regional peace and security. On the occasion, military vehicles, ambulances and training simulators were also handed over, further reinforcing defence cooperation and the enduring bonds of friendship between the two nations," Indian Army posted on X.

On Wednesday, the Indian Army chief met Sri Lanka's Defence Services Command and Staff College (DSCSC) Commandant Major General K.W. Jayaweera. He also witnessed the inauguration of the 'Indo-Lanka Wisdom Corner' at the DSCSC library.

Addressing the faculty and student officers, General Dwivedi spoke on the evolving global security landscape, the changing nature of modern warfare and the operational implications thereof.

He highlighted the pivotal role of the Armed Forces in nation-building and emphasised the need for integrating niche and emerging technologies into military operations.

The Army chief further encouraged student officers to continually enhance their professional competence to emerge as capable and effective leaders.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rahul R
Strong military ties with Sri Lanka are crucial for Indian Ocean security. Glad to see the focus on HADR - natural disasters don't care about borders, and our readiness to help neighbors is our biggest strength.
S
Sarah B
While the cooperation is positive, I hope these discussions also transparently address the long-term economic and strategic balance. True partnership means mutual benefit, not just one-sided aid during crises.
V
Vikram M
'Indo-Lanka Wisdom Corner' at their staff college is a brilliant soft-power initiative. Sharing knowledge and military doctrine builds deeper bonds than just equipment transfers. Jai Hind!
A
Aman W
Our Army Chief is absolutely right about integrating new tech. The future of warfare is changing fast. Hope our partnerships help our forces stay ahead of the curve. Proud of our armed forces.
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Nisha Z
As someone from a coastal state, I know how devastating cyclones can be. India being the 'First Responder' for Sri Lanka fills me with pride. This is what 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' (the world is one family) looks like in action.

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