• Recognises the outstanding contribution made by SL to Intern. Security
• Increased military cooperation between authoritarian states a concern: Paparo
• Says SL is an ‘essential partner’ for Security  

The Commander of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command (USINDOPACOM), Admiral Samuel Paparo who is on an official visit to Colombo, told senior Sri Lankan military officials that the United States valued Sri Lanka as a security partner, which contributes to international security.

The visiting US top brass also warned about growing military cooperation between authoritarian nations which creates strategic challenges.

The top US military officer in the Indo-Pacific pointed out that Sri Lanka’s strategic position at the crossroads of the Indian Ocean, is strategically vital.

“Sri Lanka’s shores border key sea lanes which connect the Pacific, the Indian Ocean to all the seas. This geography allows Sri Lanka to influence maritime activities that are critical to the entire Pacific. I recognise the outstanding contributions Sri Lanka has made to international security, from peacekeeping missions, demonstrating professionalism, to leadership in CMF Task Force 154 in Bahrain, to the vital role in Operation Prosperity Guardian in protecting freedom of navigation. This leadership showcases values and capabilities that make Sri Lanka an essential partner. Your leadership is important, your voice is important, as is your professionalism. And our partnership is important for the entire regions’ future,” Adm. Paparo stressed.

Adm. Paparo made the statement addressing the senior officers who are undergoing training at the National Defence College (NDC) in Colombo. He also met the Secretary of Defence at the Ministry of Defence.

“Let us be direct about the challenges we face. Nations' assertive behaviour threatens regional stability and international norms, directly affecting freedom of navigation vital to commerce. We see increased military cooperation among authoritarian nations creating strategic challenges that demand immediate attention, and this is why strengthening democratic partnerships is imperative. Transnational threats: terrorism, weapons proliferation, trafficking, piracy erode security and prosperity daily – often not making the headlines. Also, technological advances are transforming maritime security. AI, quantum computing, hypersonics are fundamentally altering the operations at sea. Those who master these technologies will shape the future…” Adm. Paparo told the NDC.

Commenting on the US-Sri Lankan partnership, Adm. Paparo said that the US backs its partnership with collaboration, shared training and intelligence, and build capability to keep peace and security. He reiterated that US capacity building was continuing and said a number of aircraft and naval assets remain in the pipeline for Sri Lanka, with a fourth Ex-USCG Cutter due to arrive early next year (2026).

“It is not choosing sides; it’s about building a region where all nations exercise sovereign rights without intimidation. And where dialogue resolves disputes. The challenges are formidable, but so is our determination, and together we will ensure a free and open Indo-Pacific,” he opined, adding that the Indo-Pacific is the growth engine of global prosperity, and that the security environment that shapes the region today will determine the prosperity of the future generations.

Paparo also met Defence Secretary Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha (Retd.) at the Defence Ministry yesterday (20). The U.S. delegation led by Admiral Paparo and had a cordial discussion. “During the meeting, both sides engaged in discussions on strengthening bilateral defence cooperation and regional security initiatives. They emphasised the importance of maintaining peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region through collaborative efforts and mutual understanding,” the MOD said. Paparo was accompanied by the Defence Attaché at the U.S. Embassy in Sri Lanka, Lieutenant Colonel Anthony Nelson.