The Sri Lanka Air Force recently published NESA Center alumna Charani Patabendige's paper, "Analyzing Air Connectivity, Air Diplomacy, and National Security in Sri Lanka-India Relations," in its Journal of Colombo Air Symposium 2023.

Abstract:
Indo-Sri Lanka relationships date back to time immemorial for both nations, rooted in mutual recognition and respect. Driven by cultural, religious, and geographical similarities, the diplomacy between these nations surpasses comparisons with other countries. Regardless of the political figures in power, both countries have maintained constant ties in various dimensions, be it humanitarian, commercial, economic, military, cultural, or political. With changing priorities in the current context, countries opt for sustainable links, benefiting both the present and future generations. In a globalized world with both traditional and non-traditional threats abundant, regional cooperation is a shield against intervention and a proactive investment for mutual benefits leading to a secure nation with a sustainable foreign policy roadmap. In this context, air connectivity plays a pivotal role in enhanced cooperation and this is evident by the foremost decision made by both the countries. In light of the deepening interconnections between nations and the growing importance of air connectivity and diplomacy, there is a critical need to comprehensively analyze the relationship between improved air connectivity, air diplomacy, and national security in the context of Sri Lanka-India relations, which will serve as the research problem. The study aims to address several objectives. Namely, how does improved air connectivity, coupled with air diplomacy, between Sri Lanka and India influence diplomatic ties, economic collaborations, and regional stability and what is their significance? What are the long-term implications for their cooperation and national security? How does it affect their decisionmaking processes and collaborative efforts in the Defence and security sectors? Lastly, the study aims to understand the challenges faced by Sri Lanka and India in enhancing air diplomacy and connectivity for mutual benefit and will explore potential solutions to foster stronger coherence and interdependence in the region.

Read the full paper starting on page 196 [PDF]

Read about the 2023 Colombo Air Symposium

About the Author

Charani Patabendige is an Acting Research Analyst and a Research Assistant at the Institute of National Security Studies, the premier think tank for the Ministry of Defence Sri Lanka.

The views presented in this publication are those of the speaker or author and do not necessarily represent the views of DoD or its components.