Sri Lanka has reiterated the importance of maintaining the Indian Ocean as a zone of peace, cooperation and shared prosperity amid evolving global security challenges.

Defence Secretary Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha (Retd), made the remarks while addressing the 14th International Meeting of High-Ranking Officials Responsible for Security Matters held in Moscow, Russia, on Thursday (28).

During his address, the Defence Secretary highlighted the growing geopolitical significance of the Indian Ocean and stressed the need to uphold freedom of navigation, respect for international law and promote constructive dialogue among nations to prevent regional tensions from escalating.

He also underscored the importance of international cooperation, intelligence sharing and collective action in addressing modern security threats, including terrorism, cybercrime, maritime insecurity and climate-related risks.

“Sri Lanka remains committed to the principles of non-alignment and peaceful coexistence,” Thuyacontha said, adding that smaller states have an important role to play in fostering dialogue, trust and regional stability.

The international forum brought together senior security officials and representatives from numerous countries and international organizations to discuss emerging global and regional security issues. (Newswire)

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