After a six-year hiatus, Sri Lanka’s National Border Management Committee (NBMC) convened its 9th session on May 30, 2025, at the Ministry of Defence. Chaired by Defence Secretary Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha, the session marked a renewed effort to enhance border security amid evolving global and regional security challenges.
The NBMC was initially established under the leadership of the Defence Secretary as part of the Integrated Border Management Strategy (IBMS) – an initiative introduced over a decade ago with the support of the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the governments of Australia and Canada.
This strategy aimed to address emerging threats posed through national borders, with particular focus on irregular migration. Since its inception, eight NBMC sessions were held prior to a long pause since 2021. During this time, only the Border Risk Assessment Centre (BRAC), created under the IBM strategy, remained operational under the purview of the Ministry of Defence.
Recognizing the increasing importance of structured border management in the context of shifting geopolitical and security landscapes globally and particularly in the region, the Ministry of Defence took proactive measures to reactivate the NBMC.The Committee’s recent session brought together senior representatives from key stakeholders including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Public Security, Department of Immigration and Emigration, Civil Aviation Authority, Sri Lanka Customs, Sri Lanka Navy, Sri Lanka Police, and the Department of Coast Guard, among others. Several critical decisions and consensus points were reached during the session.
Defence Secretary Air Vice Marshal Thuyacontha emphasized the pivotal role that a robust national security plays in achieving sustainable economic growth, especially through promoting tourism, and attracting foreign investments. He emphasised that border security is a fundamental pillar of national security, and called for the active involvement and accountability of all relevant institutions.
During the meeting in-depth discussions were held on emerging threats such as irregular migration, cross- border trafficking of humans, narcotics, and contraband, movement of extremists and terrorists, and evasion of law by organized criminals escaping through international borders.
The Defence of Secretary highlighted the pressing need for swift and coordinated responses to these threats and reiterated Sri Lanka’s commitment to regional and international obligations regarding border protection. He also acknowledged and appreciated the continued support extended by the governments of Australia, Canada, and the IOM, while expressing hope for their continued collaboration in future
initiatives.
The Defence of Secretary also extended his gratitude to the Ministry staff and all participating officials for their contribution in revitalizing the NBMC after a long pause. He issued clear directives to ensure the committee operates as a dynamic and adaptive body, evolving in line with emerging threats while remaining aligned with its foundational strategic objectives. (Newswire)