Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe concluded his visit to Sri Lanka agreeing to strengthen maritime security relations between the two countries, agreeing to establish a joint dialogue on "maritime and oceanic issues".
Abe also signed a deal donating two patrol boats to the Sri Lankan Coast Guard, concluding an earlier speculated agreement to boost Sri Lanka's maritime surveillance capability.
The maritime agreement comes on the back of a host of trade and agriculture deals signed earlier this weekend between the two countries. Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa praised the deals, which also see increased co-operation between Japan’s Maritime Self-Defense Force and the Sri Lanka Navy.
"Our two countries recognise the importance of ensuring maritime cooperation and security," said Rajapaksa.
"I am pleased to note the close interaction between the defence establishments of our countries."
The Japanese Premier ended his visit by offering flowers to a Buddhist temple outside of Colombo.
Also see our earlier posts:
Japan signs trade agreements with Sri Lanka, calls for 'national reconciliation' (07 September 2014)
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