Deputy Minister of Defence Maj. Gen. Aruna Jayasekara (Retd) and Defence Secretary Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha (Retd) visited the Japanese naval destroyer JMSDF AKEBONO (DD 108) at the Colombo Harbour on October 28.

The vessel was officially welcomed by Japanese Ambassador Akio Isomata and Commanding Officer Commander Arai Katsutomo.

The evening reception was attended by Labour Minister Anil Jayantha as Chief Guest.

Speaking at the event, Maj. Gen. Jayasekara expressed gratitude to Japan for its continued support in enhancing Sri Lanka’s maritime security, including the recent grant of UAVs worth 500 million yen under the Official Security Assistance (OSA) program.

He also highlighted Japan’s cooperation through JICA and UNODC in maritime law enforcement, meteorology, and anti-narcotics efforts, reaffirming the importance of the Japan–Sri Lanka maritime partnership in ensuring regional peace and stability.

Senior military officers, defence attachés, and diplomats attended the ceremony.