Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has said ports and maritime industries in India and Sri Lanka have the potential to become engines of shared economic growth, highlighting the importance of stronger maritime cooperation between the two neighbouring countries.
Speaking on “India-Sri Lanka Maritime Cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region” during his three-day visit to Sri Lanka, Singh said the geographical proximity of the two countries creates interdependence and opens significant opportunities for closer economic and maritime collaboration.
Singh stressed that maritime industries could play a major role in driving future prosperity for India, Sri Lanka and the wider Indian Ocean region. He also highlighted the importance of secure sea lanes, freedom of navigation and respect for international law to support maritime trade and regional economic activity.
The two countries are also looking to strengthen maritime security cooperation. Singh called for greater collaboration in areas such as maritime domain awareness, while India and Sri Lanka continue to work together on issues affecting the security and stability of the Indian Ocean.
Fisheries cooperation was another key issue. Singh acknowledged the challenges faced by fishermen on both sides and called for the long-running fisheries dispute to be addressed through mutually beneficial solutions while respecting relevant laws and maritime jurisdictions.
The remarks come as India seeks to deepen its broader economic, infrastructure, maritime and defence partnership with Sri Lanka. The Indian government has described the relationship as a multifaceted partnership covering regional security, trade, economic cooperation and people-to-people ties, with maritime cooperation forming an important component.
Stronger port and maritime connectivity could help expand trade flows, support logistics and shipping activity, and create new opportunities for investment and industrial cooperation across the Indian Ocean region.