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Strategic Defence Agreements Strengthen Bilateral Ties

On 6th April 2025, India and Sri Lanka entered into historic defence agreements aimed at deepening bilateral military cooperation. These pacts were signed during the official visit of Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe to New Delhi, marking a new chapter in regional security collaboration. The agreements focus on joint military exercises, naval cooperation, counter-terrorism, and technology sharing.

Focus on Maritime Security and Regional Stability

A major emphasis of the defence pacts is maritime security in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). As both countries share strategic geographical proximity, enhancing naval collaboration is seen as a key step in curbing piracy, illegal trafficking, and external threats. India has committed to assisting Sri Lanka in modernising its naval capabilities, which will also serve the broader Indo-Pacific security framework.

Technology Transfer and Defence Training

The agreement includes provisions for defence technology transfer, enabling Sri Lanka to access Indian defence equipment and systems. Additionally, the pact includes joint training programs for armed forces personnel. This reflects India’s growing role as a defence partner to its neighbours, promoting self-reliance (Atmanirbhar Bharat) while ensuring collective regional preparedness.

Geopolitical Significance in the Indo-Pacific

These agreements are geopolitically significant, especially amid rising Chinese influence in the region. India’s proactive engagement with Sri Lanka helps maintain balance in the Indo-Pacific and strengthens the vision of a Free, Open, and Inclusive Indo-Pacific (FOIP). It also reaffirms India’s commitment to its Neighbourhood First policy.

Why This News is Important

Boosts India’s Defence Diplomacy

For students preparing for government exams, it is crucial to understand how India uses strategic defence partnerships to enhance national security and project soft power. This pact strengthens India’s position as a reliable defence partner in South Asia.

Reinforces India’s Neighbourhood First Policy

The pacts are an example of India’s evolving Neighbourhood First Policy, under which it seeks to support the development and stability of its neighbours while safeguarding its own strategic interests.

Supports Indo-Pacific Strategy

India’s growing engagement with island nations like Sri Lanka underlines its role in shaping the Indo-Pacific regional architecture, countering external influences, and ensuring maritime stability — a frequent topic in UPSC and defence-related exams.

Historical Context: India-Sri Lanka Defence Cooperation

India and Sri Lanka have shared defence cooperation ties since 1987, when the Indo-Sri Lanka Peace Accord was signed. Over the decades, India has provided military training, equipment, and strategic support to Sri Lanka, especially during the civil war era and post-tsunami operations. In recent years, the focus has shifted toward maritime security, cyber defence, and joint exercises like SLINEX (Sri Lanka-India Naval Exercise). These latest agreements build on years of strategic trust and evolving geopolitical dynamics in the Indian Ocean Region.

Key Takeaways from India-Sri Lanka Defence Pacts

Serial Number	Key Takeaway
1	India and Sri Lanka signed historic defence pacts on 6th April 2025.
2	The pacts focus on joint military exercises, maritime security, and tech sharing.
3	India will help modernise Sri Lanka’s navy and offer defence training programs.
4	The agreements align with India’s Neighbourhood First and Indo-Pacific strategies.
5	These pacts counter growing Chinese influence and promote regional stability.

india sri lanka defence pacts 2025

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions

1. When were the India-Sri Lanka defence pacts signed?

The historic defence pacts were signed on 6th April 2025 during the visit of Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe to India.

2. What are the key components of these defence pacts?

The agreements focus on joint military training, technology sharing, naval cooperation, and strengthening maritime security in the Indian Ocean Region.