The Colombo Air Symposium-2023 (CAS) marked its sixth edition after a three-year hiatus, organized by the Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF). Held at the Eagle’s Lakeside Banquet and Convention Hall on 9th of October 2023, the event brought together intellectuals, diplomats, military leaders, policymakers, and technological experts. Under the direct guidance of Air Marshal Udeni Rajapaksa, the Commander of the Air Force, CAS 2023 centred on the theme "Fostering shared air interests in the IOR: Geopolitical Cooperation, Complexities and Compulsions." The symposium emphasized discussions promoting transparency and trust building, acting as a preventive measure against conflicts within the airspace of the IOR. Hon. Sagala Rathnayake, the Chief of Presidential Staff and Senior Adviser on National Security to the President, 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. Representatives from over 40 countries, including the United Kingdom, United States of America, Canada, India, and China, attended the Colombo Air Symposium. The event was honored by the presence of 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 OffiIcers of Tri Services, senior state officials, members of the diplomatic corps, and distinguished scholars.
INSS had the honour in participating at this event. Colonel Nalin Herath RSP, Overseeing Director General and Acting Director of Research of the Institute of National Security Studies, who also holds the position of Director Media at the Ministry of Defence, graced the occasion. Additionally, Wing Commander Udith Pathirana and Ms Charani Patabendige, Acting Research Analyst of INSS attended from the institute. Ms Charani Patabendige, in particular, served as a speaker on the second day.
