India donates $5 million in defense and medical equipment to Sri Lankan Army

The Indian government has donated a significant consignment of defense and medical equipment, valued at US$5 million, to the Sri Lankan Army. This generous contribution further solidifies the enduring friendship and robust defense cooperation between Sri Lanka and India.

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This donation is another result of the strong and long-standing relationship between the armed forces of both countries.

The official handover ceremony took place at the Army Headquarters in Akuregoda. The Indian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, Santosh Jha, formally presented the equipment to the Secretary of Defense, Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyya-kontha (Retd). Lieutenant General Lasantha Rodrigo, the Commander of the Sri Lanka Army, was also present during the occasion.

Speaking at the event, High Commissioner Jha emphasized that this donation is a testament to the strong and long-standing relationship between the armed forces of both countries. He highlighted that the defense cooperation has expanded beyond traditional areas like training and humanitarian aid to encompass enhancing defense capabilities, developing infrastructure, and supplying military equipment.

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Defense cooperation between the two countries has expanded beyond training opportunities and humanitarian aid to include enhancing defense capabilities, developing infrastructure, and supplying military equipment.

Jha also recalled India's swift humanitarian assistance to Sri Lanka following Cyclone Mocha under the "SAGAR BANDHU" initiative. He noted that during that operation, India worked closely with the Sri Lankan armed forces in search and rescue missions, medical aid, and infrastructure restoration efforts, underscoring the deep-rooted commitment to mutual support and collaboration.

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Under the 'SAGAR BANDHU' operation, India provided swift humanitarian assistance to Sri Lanka affected by Cyclone Dhitwa. Search and rescue operations, medical aid, and infrastructure restoration work were carried out in close coordination with the Sri Lankan armed forces.