The Commander of the U.S. Pacific Fleet, Admiral Stephen T. “Web” Koehler, who is on an official visit to Sri Lanka from 19 to 21 February, met Sri Lanka’s Deputy Minister of Defence, Major General (Retd) Aruna Jayasekara, at his office in Colombo.

The discussions focused on shared security challenges, maritime security, improving disaster response capabilities, and strengthening bilateral cooperation, with special attention given to enhancing Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA), the Defence Ministry said.

The Deputy Minister expressed appreciation for the continued support of the United States, particularly in strengthening Sri Lanka’s maritime security and providing humanitarian assistance during the recent Cyclone Ditwah disaster.

Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to countering transnational crimes such as illicit trafficking and other emerging security threats, while also emphasising the importance of advanced technology and joint operations to improve overall domain awareness.

The arrival of a new U.S. Coast Guard Cutter was highlighted as a significant step in enhancing the operational capabilities of the Sri Lankan Navy to address maritime security challenges.

The meeting also reviewed ongoing defence and training cooperation and explored opportunities to expand collaboration through joint exercises, training programmes, and other cooperative initiatives.

Admiral Koehler reiterated the United States’ commitment to supporting Sri Lanka in maritime security, regional stability, and strengthened defence cooperation.

Senior officials from the Pacific Fleet Command and the U.S. Embassy in Sri Lanka, including Defence Attaché Lieutenant Colonel Matthew House, were also present at the meeting.