Aptly named Disi Rela, which means ‘keeping a watchful eye over the maritime environment,’ the new joint activity will see the Australian Border Force (ABF) and Department of Sri Lanka Coast Guard (SLCG) undertake a week-long programme of work, from Dikkowita to Chilaw.

Commander Joint Agency Task Force Operation Sovereign Borders, Rear Admiral Brett Sonter, RAN said that Disi Rela underscores the strong partnership between the two countries.

“We often refer to the Australian-Sri Lankan relationship as gold standard. Today’s launch of Disi Rela takes it to a platinum level. I am looking forward to the opportunities it presents to our respective countries with regards to countering maritime security threats,” Rear Admiral Sonter said.

Disi Rela involves the sharing of operational capabilities and information between the ABF and SLCG, including raising community awareness about people smuggling, human trafficking, and other maritime crime types.