On 1st September 2026: The Institute of National Security Studies (INSS) successfully hosted a distinguished guest lecture titled "Afghanistan as a Prism of Regional Stability" , from 3:00 PM to 4:30 PM at the INSS Conference Hall. The event, organised by the INSS, featured Ambassador Air Chief Marshal Gagan Bulathsinghala (Retd) as the Guest Speaker. The session drew a diverse audience, including members of the Tri-forces, General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University (KDU), the Border Risk Assessment Centre (BRAC), the Army Maintenance Unit and the Staff of INSS, with proceedings also conducted via Zoom for broader participation.
Ambassador Bulathsinghala delivered a comprehensive analysis of Afghanistan's contemporary geopolitical landscape, tracing its historical evolution and examining the complex interplay between governance, regional dynamics, and international relations. His presentation explored the paradox of de facto authority existing without formal diplomatic recognition, and the growing pattern of transactional engagement by regional and global powers. The lecture further examined border security challenges, the role of regional mediation efforts, and the impact of shifting geopolitical alignments on Afghanistan's stability. The Ambassador also addressed the broader implications of these dynamics for South Asia, including indirect economic consequences relevant to Sri Lanka's energy security and trade dependencies.
The session concluded with an engaging question-and-answer segment, during which participants explored the strategic implications of the issues raised for Sri Lanka's national security and foreign policy positioning.
