Articles tagged with “trincomaleestrategicimportance”

A planned naval exercise between Pakistan and Sri Lanka near Trincomalee was canceled after India raised objections, according to sources. The drills, part of routine military engagements, were shelved following New Delhi's intervention. Trincomalee's strategic location in the Indian Ocean makes it vital for regional security. The exercise was scheduled weeks before Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Colombo, heightening India's concerns. While no official statement was issued, sources indicate Sri Lanka called off the drills after discussions with Indian officials. The move reflects India's growing influence in Sri Lanka's defense and maritime affairs. India has been wary of Pakistan's naval ties with China, fearing increased Chinese presence in the region. Past incidents, such as Chinese ships docking in Sri Lankan ports, have triggered diplomatic tensions. India has since deepened strategic cooperation with Sri Lanka, including energy and defense agreements. Recent deals include a trilateral energy hub project and a defense pact to strengthen military ties. India also provided Sri Lanka with a maritime surveillance aircraft in 2022. The canceled exercise underscores India's efforts to counterbalance Chinese and Pakistani influence in the Indian Ocean region.