Sri Lanka and India have signed a landmark Defense Cooperation Understanding Agreement that underscores the principle of “interconnected security” between the two nations. Under the agreement, Sri Lanka has reaffirmed its commitment not to allow its territory to be used in any manner that threatens India’s security interests.
Purpose of the Agreement
Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri described the pact as a pivotal step in recognizing the mutual nature of national security between the two countries. He made these remarks following bilateral discussions held between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.
In addition to the defense agreement, the two countries signed six more MoUs, including a major LKR 2.7 billion (USD ~$9 million) grant assistance project aimed at development in Sri Lanka’s Eastern Province.
Key Features of the Agreement
Sri Lanka’s Defense Secretary Sampath Tuyogoda issued an official statement highlighting:
- The agreement builds on the 2023 Defense Dialogue between the two nations.
- It was thoroughly reviewed, evaluated, and discussed in line with the January circular directives issued by the Sri Lankan President’s Secretariat.
- The agreement was approved by the Sri Lankan Cabinet before signing.
- It complies with international best practices and aligns with local laws and national policies of both countries.
- The pact avoids any legal or policy conflict with domestic legislation in Sri Lanka or India.
Duration of the Agreement
According to the Defense Secretary, the Understanding Agreement will remain in effect for five years, with either party having the option to terminate it with three months’ notice. If mutually agreed upon, the agreement can be extended for an additional three years, following a progress review.
Strong Diplomatic Outcomes
Foreign Secretary Misri emphasized that Prime Minister Modi’s recent visit to Sri Lanka was “significant and productive,” yielding “outcome-driven results.” He confirmed that the defense agreement is a direct result of President Dissanayake’s first official visit to New Delhi in December following his appointment.
President’s Commitment to Regional Stability
During the high-level talks, President Anura Kumara Dissanayake reportedly assured Indian officials that:
“Sri Lanka’s land or surrounding waters will not be used in any manner that threatens India’s security.”
This commitment forms the foundation of several forward-looking initiatives under the defense agreement, including:
- Intensified high-level diplomatic and defense engagements
- Expanded joint military exercises
- Enhanced capacity building across defense sectors
- Increased collaboration in Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR)
- More frequent port calls between naval forces of both nations
- Exploration of cooperation in the defense manufacturing industry
Strengthened Financial and Strategic Partnership
Foreign Secretary Misri also confirmed that India has finalized the debt restructuring process with Sri Lanka and will continue to adopt a development-oriented and grant-based investment strategy, further solidifying the strategic bilateral partnership.
This new defense cooperation framework marks a significant step in South Asian regional security, reinforcing the strong and growing ties between Colombo and New Delhi amidst evolving geopolitical dynamics.