Eight foreign warships from seven nations, Bangladesh, India, Iran, Maldives, Malaysia, Pakistan, and Russia, will join the Sri Lanka Navy Fleet in Colombo for the International Fleet Review (IFR) 2025, a landmark event marking the Navy’s 75th anniversary under the theme “Sailing Strong Together.”
Scheduled for 30 November, the vessels will present a naval salute to the President of Sri Lanka and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, symbolizing international cooperation and maritime solidarity.
The announcement was made at a media briefing on 24 November at the Department of Government Information, presided over by Navy Commander Vice Admiral Kanchana Banagoda. He outlined several days of activities leading up to the IFR, blending naval traditions with social, ethical, and environmental initiatives. Collaborative programmes involving foreign crews, the Sri Lanka Navy, Sister Services, and Police will begin on 28 November.
Vice Admiral Banagoda emphasized that hosting the IFR during the Navy’s 75th anniversary is a great honour, strengthening Sri Lanka’s maritime relations and reinforcing its commitment to peace and stability in the Indian Ocean. He highlighted the successful “Galle Dialogue International Maritime Conference 2025” as part of ongoing efforts to promote global maritime cooperation.
Rear Admiral Damian Fernando, Chief of Staff, announced commemorative events on 9 December, including tributes to war heroes, multi-religious ceremonies, social welfare projects, environmental programmes, and the release of a special first-day cover and commemorative medal. He stressed that the IFR is not only a proud naval tradition but also a significant platform uniting global navies around peace, cooperation, and mutual respect.
Rear Admiral Harsha De Silva, Director General Operations, acknowledged the support of the Ministry of Defence, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Sri Lanka Police, Ports Authority, Customs, and Colombo Municipal Council in ensuring the success of IFR-2025.
Captain Athula Jayaweera, Director Naval Operations, detailed public events: a beach cleanup at Galle Face on 28 November with foreign naval personnel, sports and cultural programmes at Welisara Naval Complex, and a Food Gala featuring international cuisines. On 29 November, a colourful City Parade along Galle Face Road will showcase both foreign and Sri Lanka naval personnel, offering the public a novel experience as part of the anniversary celebrations. (Newswire)