Sri Lanka Strengthens Defence and Diplomatic Ties With U.S. and India

The Government of Sri Lanka expanded its strategic partnerships with the United States and India through a series of defence and diplomatic agreements on August 28, 2026.

In Colombo, Sri Lanka and the United States signed a Memorandum of Understanding at the Sri Lankan Ministry of Defence to enhance bilateral defence cooperation. The agreement establishes a partnership between the Sri Lanka Armed Forces, the Montana National Guard, and the U.S. Coast Guard District 13. Planned activities for 2026 will prioritize maritime domain awareness, disaster response, and professional military education.

Simultaneously, Sri Lanka deepened ties with India through military and diplomatic channels. Navy Commander Vice-Admiral Damian Fernando visited New Delhi to meet with India's Chief of Defence Staff General N.S. Raja Subramani and other senior officials to discuss regional stability and maritime security in the Indian Ocean. In the same city, High Commissioners Santosh Jha and Mahishini Colonne co-chaired the 41st Board Meeting of the India-Sri Lanka Foundation to review projects in science, technology, and education.

These engagements follow recent Indian initiatives, including a visit by Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri to reaffirm the Neighbourhood First policy. India also delivered Bailey bridges as part of a USD 450 million reconstruction package, with Indian Army engineers tasked with installing the infrastructure to restore connectivity in Sri Lanka.