Germany and Japan's navies held military exercises with Sri Lanka, just weeks after a Sri Lankan naval intelligence officer was banned from entry to the USA over his role in war crimes.

“Warm welcome on board FGS “Bayern” on first call port of German navy in Sri Lanka for many years!” tweeted France’s ambassador to Sri Lanka Eric Lavertu, after the German frigate arrived in Colombo last week.

The next day, two Japanese ships docked in Trincomalee.

“During these visits, ships’ crew members took part in several programmes organized by the Sri Lanka Navy” said a military website. “Those engagements also helped exchange of best practices and experience among each other. Among the exercises worked off, Divisional Tactics (DIVTACS), Station Keeping and maneuvering exercises were chief.”

“An occasion to celebrate Sri Lankan cooperation with Germany and European Union countries on all maritime concerns,” Lavertu added in his tweets.

For Tamils however, the latest engagements are a cause for concern. The Sri Lankan armed forces stand accused of a host of human rights violations. Last month, a Sri Lankan naval intelligence officer was banned from entry to the USA, “for his involvement in gross violations of human rights”.

There have been growing calls for sanctions on Sri Lankan military officials from around the world, with a campaign launched in the UK last week.