Greater Coordination In IOR: India-Sri Lanka Naval Ties Touching New Depths With Adm Tripathi’s Visit?
During his visit to Colombo’s National Defence College, the CNS highlighted India-Sri Lanka’s deep historical and strategic partnership in the Indian Ocean Region. Image courtesy: X.com/@indiannavy
Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi on Tuesday (September 23, 2025) met Sri Lankan Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya in Colombo as part of his four-day official visit. Their discussions centered on strengthening maritime cooperation and broadening defence ties.
Both leaders reaffirmed the longstanding naval partnership between India and Sri Lanka, agreeing to expand operational engagements, capacity-building initiatives, and joint participation in major maritime forums such as the International Fleet Review, MILAN, and the Admiral’s Cup Regatta.
What maritime security priorities did Sri Lanka highlight?
PM Amarasuriya emphasized collective regional efforts to safeguard the maritime commons. She stressed the need for closer cooperation against narcotics trafficking, illegal fishing, marine pollution, and maritime terrorism. She also called for stronger collaboration in search and rescue operations and increased naval training exchanges between the two countries.
Admiral Tripathi’s 4-day visit comes at a time when India is stepping up its strategic focus on the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), particularly amid China’s growing presence in Sri Lanka and other neighboring nations. His engagements highlight India’s intent to remain a net security provider and a reliable partner in the IOR.
https://twitter.com/indiannavy/status/1970681096531832946Adm Dinesh K Tripathi, #CNS, called on Hon. Dr Harini Amarasuriya, Prime Minister of #SriLanka, in Colombo on #23Sep 25. @Dr_HariniA
— SpokespersonNavy (@indiannavy) September 24, 2025
The interaction encompassed wide-ranging discussions on the enduring partnership between #India and #SriLanka in the maritime domain, reaffirming… https://t.co/gl3YppVB3u pic.twitter.com/GlJaAcRK69
Which key Sri Lankan defence officials Admiral Tripathi met?
During his visit, Admiral Tripathi held high-level meetings with Deputy Defence Minister Major General KP Aruna Jayasekera, Defence Secretary Sampath Thuyacontha, and Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy, Vice Admiral Kanchana Banagoda.
He also interacted with Commander of the Sri Lanka Air Force, Air Marshal VB Edirisinghe, and Commander of the Sri Lanka Army, Lieutenant General Lasantha Rodrigo.
According to the Indian Navy, these talks underscored the commitment of both nations to enhance interoperability, joint training, and maritime domain awareness.
In a symbolic gesture, Admiral Tripathi laid a wreath at the Indian Peace Keeping Force (IPKF) Memorial in Colombo, honoring Indian soldiers who served during IPKF operations. The Navy described this as a solemn tribute to the shared history and sacrifices that continue to bind India and Sri Lanka.
What was Adm Tripathi’s message at the National Defence College?
Addressing officers at Colombo’s National Defence College, Admiral Tripathi highlighted the evolving maritime security environment and the importance of credible capability, regional partnerships, and technological advancement. He cited Indo-Sri Lankan cooperation in anti-piracy missions and narcotics interdiction as effective models of collaboration.
INS Satpura in Colombo: How it showcased naval diplomacy?
Indigenously built Shivalik-class guided missile stealth frigate INS Satpura arrived in Colombo a day ahead of Admiral Tripathi, aboard which the Navy Chief hosted a reception. The event, attended by senior dignitaries including Sri Lankan Minister of Justice and National Integration Harshana Nanayakkara, showcased India’s naval outreach and its role in fostering defence diplomacy.
The visit reaffirms India’s commitment to regional maritime security and underscores the growing depth of military-to-military ties with Sri Lanka. By focusing on operational cooperation, joint training, and capacity-building, both nations aim to strengthen their naval partnership and ensure stability across the Indian Ocean Region.
