New Delhi: India is
strengthening its defence ties with its southern maritime neighbour Sri
Lanka, ignoring opposition from several political parties in Tamil Nadu.
In the latest high-level visit, Sri Lankan naval chief Vice-Admiral
Jayantha Perera will arrive in New Delhi on an official visit starting
Monday.
India is eyeing to build its defence ties with Sri Lanka to counter China’s inroads in the Indian Ocean.
According
to sources, the Sri Lankan Navy is likely to purchase two naval
offshore patrol vessels and other military equipment from India.
India
will seek assistance in training and equipment supply. Officials of the
Sri Lankan Navy and Indian Navy will also participate in discussions to
further strengthen bilateral ties between both the navies.
Earlier,
Sri Lankan defence secretary Gotabaya Rajapakse had visited New Delhi
and held talks with defence minister Arun Jaitley. Mr Gotabaya is the
younger brother of Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapakse.
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