Japan interested in SL’s anti-terrorism skills

12 June 2014 11:54 am

Japan's Maritime Self-Defence Force Admiral Katsutosi Kawano today said the Japanese Navy would like to learn from Sri Lanka’s experiences with anti-terrorism operations when he called on President Mahinda Rajapaksa at President’s House in Anuradhapura this morning.

Admiral Kawano held discussions on enhanced operations between the two countries in the areas of maritime security and other maritime sectors.

The visiting admiral further expressed Japan’s interest in Sri Lanka’s ports, noting that ‘Sri Lanka was at the centre of the Indian Ocean.’

Within the past year and a half, 15 Japanese war ships have arrived at the Port of Colombo.

Admiral Kawano said he would also like to explore opportunities at the Hambantota Port, especially given its 17-metre depth and its proximity to the world’s busiest East-West Shipping Lane. Welcoming Japan’s interest, the President encouraged the Admiral to visit the port.