On 29th September 2025, two landmark agreements were signed between Sri Lanka and Japan, marking a new chapter in bilateral cooperation. The Exchange of Notes on the “Official Security Assistance (OSA) Program” and the “Project for the Enhancement of Productivity in the Dairy Sector” were formalized by H.E. Akio ISOMATA, Ambassador of Japan to Sri Lanka, and Hon. Vijitha Herath, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism of Sri Lanka.
The signing took place in the esteemed presence of H.E. Shigeru ISHIBA, Prime Minister of Japan, and H.E. Anura Kumara Dissanayake, President of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka, during the President’s official visit to Japan.
🇯🇵 Japan’s First Official Security Assistance (OSA) to Sri Lanka
This historic initiative marks Japan’s first OSA program for Sri Lanka, symbolizing a strengthened phase of bilateral cooperation in security and defense.
Launched in 2023, OSA is Japan’s new grant aid cooperation framework designed to enhance the security and deterrence capabilities of partner nations. Unlike traditional Official Development Assistance (ODA), which targets economic and social development, OSA allows direct support for the armed forces.
Under the OSA Program valued at 500 million yen (approx. 1 billion LKR):
- Japanese-made Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) will be provided to the Sri Lanka Navy.
- These UAVs will support monitoring, surveillance, and disaster relief operations.
- The initiative will strengthen Sri Lanka’s security and contribute to regional stability in the Indian Ocean.
🐄 Project for the Enhancement of Productivity in the Dairy Sector
In parallel, a Grant Aid Project worth 463 million yen (approx. 945 million LKR) was signed to uplift Sri Lanka’s dairy industry. This project will deliver both technical support and modern equipment to livestock facilities in the following provinces:
- Central Province
- Northern Province
- Eastern Province
- North Central Province
- North Western Province
Key provisions include:
- Real-time PCR equipment
- Sperm motility analyzer systems
- Four-wheel tractors
- Specialized training and technical support
The project aims to increase milk productivity, improve farmer livelihoods, and promote inclusive economic development by empowering small-scale dairy farmers.
🤝 Strengthening Bilateral Relations
These milestone projects highlight Japan’s unwavering commitment to Sri Lanka and showcase the depth of friendship and cooperation between the two nations. They are expected to not only boost national security and food security but also pave the way for a stronger strategic partnership in the years ahead.
📸 Photo Credit: Official Facebook Page of the Embassy of Japan in Sri Lanka
