The Third India-Sri Lanka Annual Defence Dialogue was successfully concluded in New Delhi on Tuesday the 22nd September.  The high level discussion between the two nations’ defence establishments are conducted annually to promote greater cooperation and dialogue.

This year, Sri Lanka’s delegation comprised of Eng. Karunasena Hettiarachchi, Secretary to Ministry of Defence, Lieutenant General Crishanthe De Silva, Commander of the Army, Rear Admiral N.B.J Rosayro, Deputy Chief of Staff and Commander, Eastern Naval Area of Sri Lanka Navy, Air Vice Marshal C.R Gurusinghe, Representative, Sri Lanka Air Force, Rear Admiral G.D.A.S Wimalathunga, Director General, Sri Lanka Coast Guard Department, Mr M.R.K Lenagala, Deputy High Commissioner, Sri Lanka High Commission, New Delhi and Ms Sashikala Premawardhane, Senior Assistant Secretary, Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Defence.

A range of topics of special relevance to the Air Force were discussed.  The increasing of training opportunities in Indian Military Training Establishments, obtaining assistance for overhauls of aircraft, air defence weapons as well as procurement of equipment and spares were discussed with favourable responses forthcoming.  The SLAF also offered additional openings for IAF personnel for the SLAF Junior Commanders and the NCO Management Courses.