The Colombo Air Symposium-2023 (CAS), an annual International Academic Forum organized by the Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF), was commenced for the sixth time after a three-year hiatus. Scheduled for two days at the Eagle’s Lakeside Banquet and Convention Hall, attended by intellectuals, diplomats, military leaders, policymakers, and technological experts.
Under the direct guidance and supervision of the Commander of the Air Force, Air Marshal Udeni Rajapaksa, CAS 2023 adopted the theme “Fostering shared air interests in the IOR: Geopolitical Cooperation, Complexities and Compulsions.” This thematic choice established a platform to enhance cooperation and mutual understanding among nations in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), particularly regarding shared air interests. The symposium prioritized discussions that promote transparency and trust-building, serving as a means to prevent conflicts within the airspace of the IOR.
The Chief of Presidential Staff and Senior Adviser on National Security to the President, Hon. Sagala Rathnayake, graced the event as the Chief Guest. Additionally, Professor Adam Leong Kok Wey, a prominent figure in the field of strategic studies and the Director of the Centre for Defence and International Security Studies (CDISS) at the National Defence University of Malaysia, delivered the keynote address.
Colombo Air Symposium was represented by Ambassadors, High Commissioners and foreign delegates attending from over 40 countries including United Kingdom, United States of America, Canada, India, China and more.
The Symposium was attended by the Admiral of the Fleet Wasantha Karannagoda, State Minister of Defence, Hon. Pramitha Bandara Thennakoon, Secretary to the Ministry of Defence, General Kamal Gunerathne(Retd), Chief of Defence Staff, General Shavendra Silva, Commanders of the Army and Navy, past Commanders of the SLAF, Senior Officers of Tri Services, senior state officials, members of the diplomatic corps and distinguished scholars graced the occasion.
The Colombo Air Symposium will continue tomorrow for the second and final two sessions.
