India to remain Sri Lanka's most reliable friend; offers modern defence equipment
- In Reports
- 10:01 PM, Apr 10, 2024
- Myind Staff
On April 10th, India reaffirmed its commitment as Colombo's steadfast ally and trustworthy partner during the Second India-Sri Lanka Defence Seminar. Santosh Jha, India's High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, emphasised the strong bond between the two nations in various domains, including security and defense. He highlighted the interconnectedness of their security interests due to their geographical proximity, noting that the concept of security now encompasses broader aspects such as energy, health, food, and economic stability, especially in light of the Covid-19 pandemic and the repercussions of the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Jha also mentioned India's willingness to provide advanced defense equipment to friendly nations like Sri Lanka, further strengthening their strategic cooperation.
He mentioned that the advanced platforms and equipment developed domestically in India could offer practical, cost-effective, and contemporary solutions for the Sri Lankan military. Jha expressed that India's assistance to Sri Lanka during the Covid-19 pandemic and economic challenges stemmed from a deep sense of responsibility and commitment to their close friendship and neighbouring relationship. He highlighted India's unwavering support, amounting to over USD four billion in economic aid, during Sri Lanka's severe economic crisis.
Jha emphasised that India stands as Sri Lanka's most dependable friend and reliable partner, with their bilateral cooperation expanding and diversifying. He noted that India's growing national capabilities further strengthen this partnership.
Sri Lanka's State Minister of Defence, Premitha Bandara Tennakoon, Chief of Defence Staff Gen Shavendra Silva, along with the Commanders of the Air Force and Navy, alongside senior officials from the Sri Lankan Armed Forces, attended the event.
Jha stated that India has fostered substantial capability growth within its defense industry under the vision of 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' (self-reliant India). He emphasised India's focus on investing in research and development, as well as promoting the adoption of innovative and cutting-edge technologies to develop capabilities that are well-equipped for the future.
He remarked that the Indian defense industry currently produces cutting-edge systems, advanced technologies, and top-notch equipment. Jha specifically mentioned a range of products including fighter aircraft, helicopters, naval vessels, electronic warfare systems, cyber security solutions, small arms, and large-calibre precision long-range artillery systems, among others. He highlighted that India not only manufactures these products to meet its own national requirements but also extends these capabilities to friendly partner countries like Sri Lanka.
Jha noted that India's defense exports have surged to nearly USD 2.6 billion, marking a remarkable tenfold increase over the past five years. He highlighted that India now exports defense hardware and software to over 85 countries, involving more than 100 indigenous firms in this sector. Jha emphasised that India is capable of providing high-quality, cost-effective, and reliable defense technology, along with a secure supply chain for long-term maintenance support.
He stressed that India's aim, similar to other sectors, is to ensure that its growing capabilities benefit neighbouring countries like Sri Lanka. Jha affirmed India's commitment to supporting the needs and requirements of the Sri Lankan Armed Forces. He expressed optimism that the seminar, being held in Sri Lanka for the second time in two years, would concentrate on enhancing security and defense cooperation, aiding in the identification of shared priorities between the two nations.
Jha highlighted that the event would serve as a platform for the Sri Lankan armed forces to acquaint themselves with various advanced platforms and equipment developed domestically in India. He expressed confidence that these technologies could offer practical, cost-effective, and modern solutions for the Sri Lankan military.
Furthermore, Jha reminded the audience of the shared civilisational past, common heritage, and strong cultural connections between India and Sri Lanka, which have fostered a natural warmth and ease in their interactions.
He emphasised that cooperation between the two nations is imperative due to their close proximity but noted that it is not merely driven by choice or opportunity. Jha stated that India's approach to Sri Lanka is guided by its neighborhood-first policy and SAGAR vision. This entails sharing with neighbouring countries based on their needs and aspirations, while also maintaining a generous and non-reciprocal approach.
The SAGAR initiative, which stands for Security and Growth for All in the Region, is a prominent government program aimed at assisting India's Indian Ocean Region neighbours. An extensive and varied delegation from the Indian defense industry, comprising notable entities from both the Indian Defence Public Sector and a broad spectrum of private sector industry players, attended the seminar. The delegation was led by Anurag Bajpai, Additional Secretary of the Department of Defence Production within India's Ministry of Defence.
Image Source: ETV Bharat
Comments