COLOMBO — Japanese Defence Minister Gen Nakatani and Sri Lankan Deputy Defence Minister Aruna Jayasekara agreed on May 4 to enhance defence cooperation, aiming to promote stability in the Indo-Pacific amid China’s growing influence.
Nakatani, during his visit to Colombo — only the second by a Japanese defence minister — voiced serious concerns over “unilateral attempts to change the status quo,” alluding to China’s assertiveness in regional waters. He emphasized that stronger bilateral defence ties are essential for regional prosperity and stability.
Planned initiatives include inviting Sri Lankan forces to observe Japan’s disaster response exercises and collaborating on air rescue and medical flight capabilities. Nakatani also met with Sri Lankan Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya, reaffirming support for a free and open maritime order in the region.