The Joint Commander of the French Forces deployed in the Indian Ocean, Rear Admiral Hugues Laine called on the Defence Secretary Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha (Retd) at the Defence Ministry in Sri Jayawardenepura, Kotte yesterday (Mar 19).
The French delegation included Mrs. Marie - Noelle Duris, Deputy Head of Mission of France to Sri Lanka, Commander Dang Khoa Bui, the Naval Attaché of the French Embassy in New Delhi accredited to Sri Lanka and Captain Lionel Siegfried, Commander of the French Navy Ship Provence, currently in the island. Upon their arrival at the ministry, they were warmly welcomed by the Defence Secretary.
During the meeting, both sides engaged in discussions on enhancing bilateral defence cooperation, regional maritime security and mutual interests in the Indian Ocean region. The Defence Secretary and Rear Admiral Laine exchanged views on strengthening collaborative efforts to address common security challenges.
Defence Secretary expressed appreciation for the longstanding defence partnership between Sri Lanka and France, highlighting the importance of continued dialogue and joint initiatives to promote regional stability.
Rear Admiral Laine emphasized the strategic importance of Sri Lanka's geographic location and the potential for deeper cooperation in areas such as maritime domain awareness, humanitarian assistance and maritime disaster response.
Following the meeting, the French delegation expressed gratitude for the warm hospitality extended by the Defence Ministry. Mementoes were also shared to mark the occasion.
Military Liaison Officer of the Ministry of Defence also joined the discussions with the French delegation.
