New regional Centre for Maritime Studies will enhance coordination in Indian ocean region: Defence Secretary

The newly established, Regional Centre for Maritime Studies (RCMS) will function as a pivotal and strategic nexus for comprehensive inter-ministerial and inter-agency coordination, Defence Secretary Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha (Retd) said.   
“It will effectively bridge the institutional and operational gaps across the Indian Ocean region (IOR). This centre will play a pivotal role in addressing the challenges of today and preparing for those of tomorrow,” Thuyacontha said while addressing the Inauguration Ceremony of the RCMS at General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University (KDU), Ratmalana yesterday(11).  
‘As an island nation, Sri Lanka has always been deeply connected to the sea as a vital lifeline for our economy as well as a shared heritage that unites us with our neighbours. The Indian Ocean is more than just a body of water; it is a corridor of opportunity and a region of shared responsibility’, the Defence Secretary further stated.  
The Secretary General of the French Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs, Ms. Anne-Marie Descôtes, graced the event as the Chief Guest.  
The Government of the French Republic partnered with Sri Lanka to establish this centre at KDU and it will facilitate seamless communication and knowledge sharing among diverse governmental departments, naval forces, coast guard units and private sector maritime stakeholders.  
Acting Ambassador of France to Sri Lanka and the Maldives H.E. Marie-Noëlle Duris, Secretary to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Foreign Employment and Tourism, Ms. Aruni Ranaraja, Commander of the Navy Vice Admiral Priyantha Perera, Vice-Chancellor of KDU Rear Admiral Dhammika Kumara and Director RCMS Captain (ND) Chamila E. Mendis were also present at the inauguration.