NEW DELHI — In a major step toward deepening maritime security cooperation and regional stability in the Indian Ocean, the Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy, Vice Admiral Damian Fernando, held extensive high-level talks with top Indian defence leaders in New Delhi on Thursday.
Vice Admiral Fernando, who took charge as the 27th Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy on July 1, is currently on his maiden official trip abroad from August 26 to 29.
During his stay in the national capital, Vice Admiral Fernando received a ceremonial Guard of Honour at the South Block lawns before laying a wreath at the National War Memorial to pay homage to fallen soldiers. He subsequently met with Indian Navy Chief Admiral Krishna Swaminathan and Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh.
According to an official spokesperson of the Indian Navy, the bilateral discussions focused on expanding joint operations, capacity-building programs, institutionalized training, and overall maritime safety. The engagement underlines the deep-rooted ties between both nations under India's broader vision of regional maritime security.
In a separate session, Vice Admiral Fernando met with Chief of Defence Staff General N.S. Raja Subramani. Sharing details on X, the Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff noted that both leaders reviewed existing defence protocols, explored new avenues for joint military training, and discussed key regional security matters aimed at solidifying the strategic partnership.
The Sri Lankan Navy Chief also paid a courtesy call on Vice Chief of the Air Staff Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit to reinforce cross-service operational cooperation and interoperability.
"The two sides reviewed activities and projects under the Bilateral Defence Cooperation Plan and reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening bilateral defence cooperation in areas of mutual interest," the Ministry of Defence said in a statement.
As part of his tour, Vice Admiral Fernando will head to Kochi to visit the Southern Naval Command headquarters and tour key Indian naval training facilities. The visit holds personal significance for Fernando, who previously completed specialized gunnery and missile training at INS Dronacharya in Kochi, where he earned the honor of 'Best All-Round Officer.'
He is also scheduled to interact with key representatives from India’s defence manufacturing sector to explore potential industrial collaboration and equipment support.
