SASSRI launch signals new era for South Asia's sustainability and security agenda

KEY REGIONAL LEADERS, DEFENCE EXPERTS, AND SCHOLARS CALL FOR URGENT COLLABORATION AS SOUTH ASIA FACES COMPLEX ENVIRONMENTAL AND GEOPOLITICAL CHALLENGES.

- 

As climate change accelerates, geopolitical tensions simmer, and economic inequalities deepen, South Asia finds itself navigating one of the most complex periods in its modern history.

Against this backdrop, a powerful call for integrated regional action took center stage at the launch of the South Asia Sustainability & Security Research Institute (SASSRI) on September 10, 2025, at the Cinnamon Grand, Colombo.

The gathering convened a distinguished assembly of attendees, including Ambassadors/High Commissioners, Senior officials from the Government of Sri Lanka, representatives from the Tri Forces, leaders from the private sector, scholars from academic institutions, members of policy think tanks and other delegates from diplomatic missions, as well as development partners and other notable individuals.

Dr. Nirmal De Silva, Board Director of SASSRI, delivering the welcome address emphasised the vision behind the institute, noting that "SASSRI is not merely an academic platform, but a dynamic institution created to bridge research with real-world policy and practice. South Asia's stability, prosperity, and resilience depend on collaborative solutions that recognise the deep interconnection between sustainability and security."

He outlined how SASSRI intends to generate interdisciplinary research, shape evidence-based policies, and promote regional dialogue to address pressing issues such as climate change, resource management, socioeconomic disparities, and geopolitical tensions.