Australia's Special Envoy for Indian Ocean Affairs Tim Watts has concluded a visit to Sri Lanka, announcing AUD 2 million in development funding for a dengue prevention initiative while reaffirming bilateral cooperation across multiple sectors.

Australia has committed AUD 2 million in development assistance to support Sri Lanka's Wolbachia Project, a dengue control initiative, following increased mosquito-borne infections in the island nation after Cyclone Ditwah. Special Envoy Tim Watts made the announcement during his recent visit, emphasizing Australia's ongoing partnership with Sri Lanka across priority areas including maritime security, trade, investment, and disaster preparedness.

As part of broader humanitarian support, Australia is also delivering disaster assessment drones to the National Building Research Institute and has provided two inflatable rescue boats to the Disaster Management Centre. These contributions form part of an AUD 7 million humanitarian and recovery assistance package designed to enhance Sri Lanka's emergency response capabilities and disaster preparedness infrastructure.

During his visit, Watts toured the South Asia Gateway Terminal at Port of Colombo, where he discussed Sri Lanka's strategic role as a regional transshipment hub and explored shared maritime interests. He also engaged with Sri Lankan officials including Mass Media Deputy Minister Dr. Kaushalya Ariyarathne, Parliamentary Friendship Group Co-Chair S.M. Marikkar, and Pathfinder Foundation Founder Milinda Moragoda to discuss media cooperation and regional developments.

Watts described Sri Lanka as "an important neighbour for Australia in the Indian Ocean" and stated that Australia remains committed to supporting a peaceful, stable, and prosperous region. This marks his second visit to Sri Lanka, following a previous trip in October 2023 when he attended an Indian Ocean Rim Association meeting.