Lieutenant General BKGM Lasantha Rodrigo, Commander of the Sri Lanka Army, arrived in India on 11th June 2025 for a four-day official visit, aimed at bolstering bilateral military cooperation and exploring new avenues in training and capability enhancement. His visit underscores the enduring defence partnership and shared commitment of both nations towards regional security.
Also Read: Indian Army Joins Multinational Military Exercise KHAAN QUEST in Mongolia – Know More
The visit began with a wreath-laying ceremony at the National War Memorial in New Delhi, followed by a ceremonial Guard of Honour at the South Block Lawns. Lieutenant General Rodrigo held key discussions with Lieutenant General NS Raja Subramani, Vice Chief of the Army Staff, focusing on defence collaboration and regional concerns. He was also briefed on Operation Sindoor and India’s strategic outlook. High-level meetings were held with Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh, and Defence Secretary Mr. Rajesh Kumar Singh, providing a platform for wide-ranging defence dialogue.
Symbolising Indo-Sri Lankan friendship, Lieutenant General Rodrigo planted a tree at the Manekshaw Centre. On 12th June, he will visit Jaipur to meet the South Western Command leadership. The visit will culminate with his role as Reviewing Officer at the Passing Out Parade at the Indian Military Academy, Dehradun, on 14th June—marking a return to his alma mater, where he was commissioned in 1990. The presence of Brigadier RMSP Rathnayake, witnessing his son’s commissioning in the same ceremony, adds a poignant touch to the occasion.
The visit highlights the mutual resolve of India and Sri Lanka to deepen military cooperation and uphold peace and stability in the region.
