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Sri Lanka, India discuss defense, security cooperation

Sri Lanka, India discuss defense, security cooperation
Easterneye.Biz Staff
By Easterneye.Biz StaffJun 14, 2021
Easterneye.Biz Staff
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SRI LANKA and India discussed ways to enhance defense and security cooperation between two countries on Friday (11).

Sri Lanka's defense secretary, general Kamal Gunaratne expressed his views on matters of defense cooperation and recalled the long-existing bilateral ties and cooperation between the two countries, according to a report in Colombo Gazette.

The meeting focused on areas of bilateral cooperation, including the matters of mutual relevance.

Gunaratne also expressed Sri Lanka's appreciation for India's rapid response and support to douse the flames on Singapore-flagged cargo ship- MV X-Press Pearl- that caught fire on May 20 and sank near the outer area of Colombo port.

During the meeting, attention was also drawn towards the long-existing military training exchange between the two countries.

The meeting was held while adhering to the stipulated health guidelines to contain the spread of Covid-19.

The commanders of the Sri Lankan navy and air force and the chief of national intelligence also attended the talks.

sri lankamv x-press pearlbilateral tiessecurity cooperationindiadefense

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  • A Pentagon email reported by Reuters suggested the US was considering reviewing its support for UK sovereignty over the Falklands.
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A report suggesting the US may be rethinking its position on the Falkland Islands has sparked a strong response from Downing Street, coming just days before King Charles and Queen Camilla head to Washington to meet president Donald Trump.
An internal Pentagon email, reported by Reuters, suggested the US was looking at ways to put pressure on Nato allies it felt had not supported its war in Iran.
One of the options discussed was a review of American backing for British sovereignty over the Falklands.
No 10 was quick to respond, with the prime minister's spokesman saying the government "could not be clearer" on its stance.
"Sovereignty rests with the UK and the islanders' right to self-determination is paramount," he told BBC, adding that this had been "expressed clearly and consistently to successive US administrations."
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The Falkland Islands government backed London's position, saying it had "complete confidence" in the UK's commitment to defending its right to self-determination.
Previous US administrations have recognised Britain's administration of the islands but have stopped short of formally backing its sovereignty claim.

Political reaction grows

The report triggered sharp reactions from across British politics. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch called the reported US position "absolute nonsense", adding: "We need to make sure that we back the Falklands.

They are British territory." Reform UK's Nigel Farage said the matter was "utterly non-negotiable" and confirmed he would raise it with Argentina's president Javier Milei when they meet later this year.

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