India and Sri Lanka are poised to sign a landmark defense cooperation agreement during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Colombo from April 4 to 6, 2025. This marks the first such pact between the two nations since the Indian Peace Keeping Force (IPKF) intervention in the 1980s.
The agreement aims to strengthen bilateral security ties, encompassing areas such as maritime security, military training, and defense technology collaboration. Discussions on this framework began following Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s visit to New Delhi in December 2024.
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri highlighted the significance of this development, stating that a memorandum of understanding on defense cooperation is expected to be signed during the prime minister’s visit.
This initiative reflects a mutual commitment to enhancing regional security and stability, especially in light of increasing geopolitical dynamics in the Indian Ocean region. The enhanced cooperation comes against the backdrop of India’s concerns about China’s increasing military presence in the area, including the Hambantota port in Sri Lanka.
Beyond defense, the visit is anticipated to bolster economic ties, with several memorandums of understanding expected to be signed in areas such as energy and digital sectors.
This historic agreement signifies a new chapter in India-Sri Lanka relations, fostering deeper collaboration in defense and security
By BHARAT GLOBAL TIME
