New think tank SASSRI to boost maritime security and sustainability in South Asia

Experts called for interdisciplinary research, strategic thought and collaboration to advance economic, maritime and environmental security of region

- By Divya THOTAWATTE

AS part of growing push for regional collaboration, the South Asia Sustainability and Security Research Institute (SASSRI) was launched in Colombo on Wednesday to advance resilience, sustainability, and cooperation across South Asia.

The SASSRI is positioned as a multidisciplinary hub, working with governments, academia, civil society, and the private sector to generate knowledge, shape policy and strengthen partnerships for a sustainable and secure future. The inauguration brought together distinguished leaders, diplomats, scholars, and practitioners to explore collaborative approaches to maritime security and sustainable development in the Indian Ocean region.

Former Indian Defence Ministry Principal Adviser and former Military Adviser to the Indian Prime Minister Lieutenant General (Retd.) Vinod G. Khandare and Synergia Foundation India Chief Strategic Officer and Defence Intelligence Agency India former Director-General Lieutenant General (Retd.) G. A. V. Reddy were Guests of Honour at the event. SASSRI Director Dr. Nirmal De Silva said: "In today’s VUCA world, our challenges are global. It is no longer an individual problem, and neither are opportunities. In order to leverage these opportunities, we need to emphasise research and collaboration.”