U.S. and Sri Lankan Navy Chiefs Discuss Security and Cooperation

COLOMBO (News 1st); Admiral Stephen T. Koehler, Commander of the U.S. Pacific Fleet, met with Vice Admiral Priyantha Perera, Commander of the Sri Lankan Navy, at the Navy Headquarters in Colombo.

Admiral Koehler was accorded a Guard of Honour in line with naval traditions.

During their discussions, Admiral Koehler and Vice Admiral Perera focused on several key issues, including rising security challenges in the Indian Ocean region, enhancing collaboration on maritime domain awareness and disaster response, and reaffirming the U.S. commitment to supporting Sri Lanka in combating transnational threats. 

They also discussed the growing cooperation between the U.S. and Sri Lankan navies and efforts to promote peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

Admiral Koehler also participated in a briefing on the operational functions of the Sri Lankan Navy and visited the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) Colombo, located at Navy Headquarters.