Sri Lanka and Türkiye discussed on the progress in defence and security cooperation when the top officials of the two nations met for the second round of political consultation in Ankara.
The second round of political consultations between the two countries was held on Tuesday (05) at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Türkiye in Ankara.
“Both sides underscored the importance of maintaining regular political dialogue to review progress and identify new avenues for collaboration, building on the strong historical foundations of bilateral relations,” Sri Lanka’s Foreign Ministry said in a statement.
During the consultations, the two delegations engaged in comprehensive and forward-looking discussions covering a wide spectrum of areas, including bilateral political relations, trade and economic cooperation, defence collaboration, connectivity and maritime affairs, education, science and technology, and regional and multilateral issues, it said.
“Opportunities for expanding investments and joint ventures were also explored, particularly in sectors such as pharmaceuticals, renewable energy, tourism, logistics, and technology.”
“The consultations also noted the steady progress in defence and security cooperation, with both sides reaffirming their commitment to strengthening institutional linkages and capacity-building efforts,” the Foreign Ministry said.
The consultations were co-chaired by Sugeeshwara Gunaratna, Director General of the Europe and North America Division of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ambassador Cihad Erginay. Director General for South Asia of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Türkiye.
Discussions further focused on enhancing connectivity and maritime cooperation, including leveraging existing direct air links between Istanbul and Colombo and exploring collaboration in maritime services and the blue economy.
Both sides also highlighted the importance of advancing cooperation in higher education, vocational training, and scientific research, including the early finalization of pending bilateral agreements.
The two delegations exchanged views on regional and global developments, including developments in West Asia, South Asia, and the Indian Ocean region, and reaffirmed their commitment to working closely within the United Nations and other multilateral fora on issues of mutual interest.
“Both sides reiterated their adherence to the principles of the UN Charter, international law, and multilateral cooperation.”
The Sri Lanka delegation comprised of Ambassador of Sri Lanka to the Republic of Türkiye Niluka Kadurugamuwa, Minister Nilusha Dilmini and First Secretary Commercial Dilanga Hettiarachchi.