Rajnath Singh arrives in Sri Lanka for three-day visit
Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has arrived in Sri Lanka for a three-day visit to strengthen bilateral defense and maritime security ties. The visit includes high-level meetings and the arrival of the Indian Navy frigate INS Udaygiri at Colombo port.
Why it matters
This visit marks a significant diplomatic effort to enhance regional security cooperation and strengthen the 'Neighbourhood First' policy between India and Sri Lanka.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh arrived in Sri Lanka on Tuesday (September 8, 2026) for a three-day visit aimed at strengthening bilateral ties and expanding cooperation in defence and regional maritime security.
"Looking forward to a productive engagement with the leadership of Sri Lanka during the visit," Mr. Singh said ahead of his visit to the island nation.
He will also be interacting with the Indian diaspora.
"Besides our longstanding partnership as well as deep historical and civilisational ties, Sri Lanka is one of our most important partners under the Neighbourhood First and MAHASAGAR initiatives," he added.
Mr. Singh was received at the Bandaranaike International Airport by Sri Lanka's Deputy Minister of Defence Major General (Retd) Aruna Jayasekara and Indian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka Santosh Jha, the Ministry of Defence said.
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