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Eye on China, India boosts ties with Sri Lanka

India will seek assistance in training and equipment supply

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.

( Source : dc correspondent with agency inputs )
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