2nd Indo-SL strategic talks :

Focus on sea route safety, extremism

The Second Strategic Discussion centred around strategic concerns of Sri Lanka in the Indian Ocean, the Emergence of Asia Pacific Region as a geo-strategically important region, the emergence of new security threats against national security and the concerns on the global security scenario including terrorism and extremism. It was also emphasized the importance of continuing this dialog to strengthen security strategies to enhance maritime security in and around the Indian Ocean.

The Discussion between the Armed Forces of India and Sri Lanka was held at the Office of the Chief of Defence Staff from July 13 to 15 and both delegations deliberated the importance of exchange of ideas and sharing of experience to enhance the knowledge, trust, confidence and friendship between the two countries to charter the courses of success to keep the strategic sea routes safe and to secure national interests.

The Strategic discussion between Armed Forces of India and Sri Lanka was initiated in 2013 to promote professional and mutually beneficial relations between the Armed Forces of the two countries. This discussion is designed to improve bilateral cooperation and understanding between the Armed Forces through direct and open exchange of facts on matters of mutual interest.

The Indian delegation was headed by Air Marshal AS Bhonsle, Officiating Chief of Integrated Defence Staff to the Chairman Chiefs of Staff Committee. The Indian delegation consisted of Brigadier SL Joshi, Captain Prakash Gopalan, Defence Adviser, Indian High Commission in Sri Lanka and Wing Commander AA Kelkar.

The Sri Lankan delegation was led by Air Chief Marshal Kolitha Gunatilleke Chief of Defence Staff and comprised of Major General M.P. Peiris Chief of Staff Sri Lanka Army, Rear Admiral S.S. Ranasinghe Chief of Staff Sri Lanka Navy, Air Vice Marshal C.R. Gurusinghe Chief of Staff Sri Lanka Air Force, DIG (Retd) A.N.S. Mendis Chief of National

Intelligence, Rear Admiral G.D.A.S. Wimalathunga Director General Sri Lanka Coast Guard and representative from Ministries of Defence and Foreign Affairs.