The United Nations and Sri Lanka are set to deepen collaboration on international peacekeeping, following a high-level meeting yesterday (24) between a UN delegation and Defence Secretary Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha (Retd).

The discussion, led by UN Resident Coordinator Marc-André Franche and UNHCR Deputy Director Karen Whiting, focused on the engagement of Sri Lankan troops in UN missions. 

Key to the enhanced partnership is accelerating the deployment screening process, conducting specialized training, and ensuring equipment meets UN standards.

Mr. Franche acknowledged Sri Lanka’s efforts to uphold human rights, and the UN delegation reaffirmed its support for strengthening Sri Lanka's peacekeeping capacity. 

Defence Secretary Thuyacontha, in turn, expressed the nation's commitment to increased contributions, emphasizing professionalism, accountability, and global best practices.