Ministry of Defence  – Media Centre

The Defence Advisor (DA) for the Australian High Commission in Sri Lanka Colonel Amanda Johnston and the Commanding Officer of Peace Operations Training Centre (POTC), Government of Australia, Lieutenant Colonel Mike Webbe, visited the Institute of National Security Studies on 27^th June 2024. The Director of Media (Ministry of Defence) and Overlooking Director General and Acting Director Research of the Institute of National Security Studies Colonel Nalin Hearth RSP, warmly welcomed the delegation. Subsequently, a round table discussion was conducted with the participation of visiting delegation at the Institute of National Security Studies. Also, Director (Administration) of the Institute of National Security Studies Ms Nilmini Ulluwishewa and members of the Institute of National Security Studies, participated in the discussion.

Beginning of the discussion the Director Media (Ministry of Defence) and Overlooking Director General and Acting Director Research of the Institute of National Security Studies Colonel Nalin Hearth RSP, RSP explained Sri Lankan Military Force’s contribution to the UN Peacekeeping Operations since the year 1952. In particular, the discussion was more focused on topics of the Exchange of ideas on Australia and Sri Lanka’s approach to UN peacekeeping operations (UNPKO) and the exchange of ideas on Australia and Sri Lanka’s interactions with INGOs including de-mining organisations. Also, during the discussion consideration was given to the Exchange of ideas on Australia and Sri Lanka’s approach to Women’s Peace and Security issues under UNSC Resolution 1325. Indeed, during the discussion special emphasis was given to seeking strategic-level opportunities to more strengthen the Australia-Sri Lanka security relations.

On completion of the round table discussion, the Defence Advisor (DA) for the Australian High Commission in Sri Lanka Colonel Amanda Johnston appreciated the Sri Lankan Military Force’s contribution to the UN Peacekeeping Operations. In addition, the Defence Advisor elaborated Government of Australia’s continuous support for the Sri Lankan armed forces in future as well. Finally, the Director Media (Ministry of Defence) and Overlooking Director General and Acting Director Research of the Institute of National Security Studies Colonel Nalin Hearth RSP, RSP expressed sincere gratitude with thanks for the visiting delegation of the Government of Australia and highlighted the success of the bilateral initiatives for counter illegal migration and importance of strengthening the by lateral relationship in future as well. Also, the new edition of Defence Review Magazine published by the Institute of National Security Studies was presented to the delegation.