On June 11, 2025, a significant diplomatic development unfolded regarding India-Sri Lanka defense cooperation. Lieutenant General B.K.G.M. Lassantha Rodrigo, Commander of the Sri Lankan Army, met with top officials from all three wings of the Indian defense forces to discuss further strengthening bilateral military cooperation.
Sri Lanka Army Commander's India Visit: Amidst the evolving strategic landscape in South Asia and rising tensions with Pakistan, the visit of Lieutenant General B.K.G.M. Lassantha Rodrigo, Commander of the Sri Lankan Army, to India is considered strategically crucial. General Rodrigo was on an official visit to India from June 11 to June 14, during which he held extensive discussions with the chiefs of the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. Several key points were discussed to give new direction to defense cooperation between the two countries.
Commencement of the Visit: Tribute to Martyrs
Lieutenant General Rodrigo's visit began with paying tribute to the martyred Indian soldiers at the National War Memorial. Following this, he received a formal Guard of Honour at the South Block Lawn, signifying the high regard for this visit. According to the Ministry of Defence, this visit symbolizes the strengthening and deepening of the decades-old defense cooperation between India and Sri Lanka.
Dialogue with the Chiefs of the Three Armed Forces
The Sri Lankan Army chief first held a long and significant discussion with the Vice Chief of the Indian Army, Lieutenant General N.S. Raja Subramaniam. This discussion covered topics such as regional security, counter-terrorism strategies, and defense technological cooperation. He subsequently met with the Chief of the Indian Navy, Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi, and the Chief of the Indian Air Force, Air Chief Marshal A. P. Singh.
These meetings particularly emphasized maritime security, joint exercises, and capacity-building programs. The meeting at the Naval Headquarters clarified that both countries will work together to address shared threats emanating from the sea.
Information Shared on Operation ‘Sindur’
India briefed General Rodrigo on 'Operation Sindur,' a significant operation related to India's regional maritime security strategy. Through this, he was informed about India's overall security perspective, strategic presence in the Indian Ocean region, and rapid response capabilities.
This visit comes at a time when India faces heightened diplomatic and strategic tensions with Pakistan. Pakistan's support for terrorists, infiltration along the Line of Control (LOC), and regional instability have necessitated increased defense cooperation with friendly nations. Sri Lanka, a maritime neighbor and traditional friend of India, makes collaboration crucial to addressing shared maritime interests and challenges such as drug trafficking, counterfeit currency rackets, and China's growing military presence.
Strategic Partnership Gains Momentum
While military cooperation between India and Sri Lanka has been consistent, it is now being given strategic depth. General Rodrigo's visit focused on joint training exercises, military exchange programs, and supply chain support. India has previously assisted Sri Lanka with defense equipment, patrol boats, and training support.
On June 14, General Rodrigo will participate as the Reviewing Officer for the Passing Out Parade at the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun. This signifies India's respect for Sri Lanka and further strengthens military ties.
