'Country exploiting maritime space for economic gains'

Ridma Dissanayake

After the liberation of the nation from the cruel grip of terrorism, the island is looking forward to exploiting the maritime space for economic gains, Navy Commander Vice Admiral Jayanath Colombage said.

The participants of the seminar

He was addressing the regional seminar on Implementation of the Global Search and Rescue Plan organized by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) on Tuesday at the Malima Club House in Uswetakeiyawa.

He expressed his pleasure at being able to hold a seminar of this nature at a time when the country is on a threshold of maritime renaissance.

He said he holds the IMO in high esteem and as a responsible partner, exercises its full commitment for the Search and Rescue operations. Elaborating on the Navy's role in responding to distresses in the Search and Rescue Region, the Commander told the gathering how precious lives were saved at sea. He also spoke on the plans to augment the SAR capacities and capabilities according to the international conventions under the aegis of the Defence and Urban Development Ministry.

Engagements of this nature offer an opportunity to assess ground realities, capacities and capabilities, the Commander said.

The Commander extended his best wishes for successful deliberations and invited the foreign participants to enjoy our traditional hospitality during their stay in Sri Lanka.

The session was attended by a gathering of maritime professionals that included Chief of Staff of the Navy Rear Admiral Dhamayantha Dharmasiriwardene and Director General Operation of the Navy Rear Admiral Jayantha Perera.

It is a three day seminar which provides opportunity for national authorities in the Asia Pacific region as well as inter-governmental and non-governmental organizations to enhance their understanding of search and rescue procedures, establish or improve their SAR services while promoting cooperative approaches in the region through open discussions and exchange of views and experiences. Participants from Bangladesh, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Maldives, Myanmar, Pakistan and Thailand as well as consultants and experts from Australia, Hong Kong, Sweden, USA and IMO attended the event facilitated by the Sri Lanka Navy.