Sri Lanka, Japan strengthen maritime ties

Deputy Minister of Defence Major General Aruna Jayasekara (Retd) and Defence Secretary Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha (Retd) visited the Japanese naval ship JMSDF Akebono at Colombo Harbour yesterday (28 October).

The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) destroyer Akebono (DD 108) arrived in Sri Lanka yesterday morning on an official visit. The dignitaries were warmly received by Japanese Ambassador to Sri Lanka, H.E. Akio Isomata, and the ship’s Commanding Officer, Commander Arai Katsutomo.

Minister of Labour and Deputy Minister of Finance and Planning, Dr. Anil Jayantha, attended the evening reception onboard the ship as Chief Guest.

Speaking at the reception, Deputy Minister Maj. Gen. Jayasekara (Retd) expressed deep appreciation to the Government of Japan for its continued support in enhancing Sri Lanka’s maritime and Coast Guard capabilities, as well as assistance in combating drug trafficking and other transnational crimes.