Australian High Commissioner Pays Courtesy Call on Defence Secretary
January 29, 2026The Australian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, His Excellency Mathew Duckworth, paid a courtesy call on the Defence Secretary, Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha (Retd), at the Ministry of Defence today (29 January).
The meeting was held in a cordial and constructive atmosphere, during which both parties engaged in discussions on matters of mutual interest and the further strengthening of bilateral defence cooperation between Sri Lanka and Australia, with particular emphasis on maritime security and regional stability.
Welcoming the High Commissioner, the Defence Secretary expressed Sri Lanka’s sincere appreciation for Australia’s longstanding engagement and consistent support in strengthening Sri Lanka’s defence and maritime security capabilities. He reaffirmed Sri Lanka’s commitment to deepening defence cooperation with Australia in areas of shared strategic importance.
During the discussions, the Defence Secretary highlighted the significant contribution made by Australia to Sri Lanka’s defence sector, including the donation of the Beechcraft King Air 350 maritime surveillance aircraft to the Sri Lanka Air Force in late 2024, which has substantially enhanced national maritime domain awareness. He also acknowledged Australia’s support in strengthening the hydrographic capabilities of the Sri Lanka Navy Hydrographic Service, as well as previous vessel contributions and sustained training assistance extended to the Sri Lanka Tri-Forces.
Both sides reaffirmed their joint commitment to combating human trafficking and other illegal maritime activities through strengthened cooperation in capacity building, training, community engagement, and technical and equipment support.
The meeting reflected the strong and growing defence partnership between Sri Lanka and Australia, underpinned by mutual trust, shared strategic interests, and a common commitment to regional security and stability.
