Colombo, April 22 (U.S. Embassy in Sri Lanka) – The waters off Trincomalee are set to witness a significant maritime exercise as the United States Navy, U.S. Marine Corps, and Sri Lanka Navy converge for the Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) Sri Lanka 2024. Scheduled for four days starting from today, this exercise underscores the deepening partnership between the two nations in ensuring maritime security and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
CARAT Sri Lanka 2024 brings together the expertise of the U.S. Fleet Anti-Terrorism Security Team (FAST) and their counterparts from the Sri Lanka Navy Marine unit. With a focus on security and anti-terrorism operations for naval assets, the exercise will encompass a wide range of naval capabilities, showcasing the synergy between the two forces.
One notable aspect of this year’s CARAT Sri Lanka is the inclusion of a Women, Peace, and Security Symposium on April 24. This symposium aims to highlight the indispensable roles women play in peace negotiations, conflict management, and resolution, underscoring the commitment of both nations to gender equality and inclusivity in maritime affairs.
U.S. Ambassador to Sri Lanka, Julie Chung, emphasized the significance of CARAT Sri Lanka in enhancing bilateral military engagement and fostering peace and stability in the Indian Ocean Region. Since Sri Lanka’s participation in CARAT began in 2017, the exercise has evolved into the most substantial military collaboration between the two nations, reflecting their shared commitment to maritime security.
Vice Admiral Priyantha Perera, Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy, highlighted the operational benefits of participating in exercises like CARAT, which provide valuable training and experience, particularly in conducting combined operations with diverse naval forces. Such collaborations are crucial for upholding freedom of navigation and maintaining a rules-based order in the maritime domain.
Anthony Nelson, Senior Defense Official at the U.S. Embassy, lauded the people-to-people aspect of CARAT Sri Lanka 2024, emphasizing its role in building lasting friendships and mutual understanding between the U.S. and Sri Lankan counterparts. Beyond honing naval capabilities, the exercise symbolizes the strength of the partnership between the two nations.
CARAT, initiated in 1995, has grown into a cornerstone of maritime cooperation between the United States and partner nations across the Indo-Pacific. As the exercise series celebrates its 30th anniversary, it continues to enhance operational collaboration and build relationships through various exchanges.
The significance of CARAT Sri Lanka 2024 extends beyond military cooperation, reflecting the shared commitment of the United States and Sri Lanka to promoting peace, stability, and prosperity in the region. By working together, the two nations are better equipped to address evolving maritime security challenges and uphold the principles of a free and open Indo-Pacific.
For more information on the United States’ engagement in Sri Lanka, visit the official website of the U.S. Embassy in Sri Lanka and follow @USEmbassySL on social media platforms.
