INS Sahyadri Docks in Colombo for India-Sri Lanka Naval Diplomacy

Colombo, April 7: In a display of deepening maritime cooperation between India and Sri Lanka, the Indian Navy's indigenously-built warship, INS Sahyadri, arrived at the port of Colombo as part of its mission deployment in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), an official press releaseby the Indian Navy stated.

Key Points

INS Sahyadri reinforces maritime security collaboration

Joint naval activities enhance operational interoperability

Modi pays tribute to IPKF at memorial near Colombo

India's 'Neighbourhood First' policy demonstrates regional engagement

The warship, part of the Eastern Fleet, is on an operational visit that reinforces the shared commitment of both nations to maritime security, regional collaboration, and environmental protection.

During its stay in Colombo, personnel from the Indian and Sri Lankan navies will participate in a series of joint activities designed to enhance operational interoperability. These include professional exchanges, joint drills, and knowledge-sharing sessions aimed at fostering mutual understanding and boosting synergy between the two naval forces, the press release stated.

The visit is expected to significantly strengthen naval diplomacy and promote a spirit of camaraderie among maritime professionals from both countries.

The presence of INS Sahyadri in Colombo further reflects India's continued focus on its 'Neighbourhood First' and MAHASAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) initiatives.

The Indian Navy, through such sustained outreach, remains committed to regional stability and fostering close ties with partner nations in the Indo-Pacific.

Earlier this week, Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute at the Indian Peace Keeping Force (IPKF) Memorial in Sri Jayawardenapura Kotte, near Colombo. During the solemn ceremony, he honoured the courage and sacrifice of Indian soldiers who lost their lives while serving for peace, unity, and the territorial integrity of Sri Lanka. The tribute formed part of his ongoing state visit to Sri Lanka--his first since 2019--undertaken at the invitation of Sri Lankan President Disanayaka.

Prime Minister Modi was accorded an unprecedented ceremonial welcome at Colombo's Independence Square, marking the first time Sri Lanka has extended such honours to a visiting leader.

His arrival in Colombo on Friday followed his participation in the BIMSTEC Summit in Thailand, where he held key bilateral meetings with regional counterparts, including the Prime Ministers of Thailand and Bhutan.

Reader Comments

Rajiv K.

Great to see our Navy strengthening ties with neighbors! 🇮🇳 The INS Sahyadri is a beauty - proud of our indigenous warship capabilities. More such collaborations will help secure our waters.

Shalini P.

While I appreciate the diplomatic efforts, I wonder if we're doing enough to address the economic concerns of Sri Lanka first? The naval cooperation is important, but the people need concrete economic support too.

Arjun M.

The joint drills sound exciting! Does anyone know if they'll be open for public viewing? It would be amazing to see our navies working together up close.

Lakshmi R.

PM Modi paying respects at the IPKF Memorial was a touching moment. We must never forget the sacrifices made for regional peace. 🙏

Dinesh T.

MAHASAGAR initiative is such a smart foreign policy move. Securing our maritime interests while promoting growth for all - that's the way to counter Chinese influence in the region!

Priya S.

The ceremonial welcome for PM Modi shows how much our relationship with Sri Lanka has improved. From fishermen disputes to this - what a transformation! Hope this visit brings more people-to-people connections too.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Tags:

INS Sahyadri India-Sri Lanka Relations Naval Diplomacy Maritime Cooperation Narendra Modi Indian Navy