United States conducts disaster management training programme in Sri Lanka

19-Jun-2026

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A three-day workshop was held in Galle with participation of US and Sri Lankan disaster management officials to strengthen preparedness for natural disasters and humanitarian emergencies.

The programme was conducted under a 2025 memorandum of understanding between Sri Lanka’s Ministry of Defence and the Montana National Guard. It was organised jointly by the US Embassy, US Pacific Command’s Centre for Disaster Management, the Montana National Guard, and Sri Lanka’s Disaster Management Centre.

Training focused on managing evolving disaster scenarios, coordination of resources, public communication, and decision-making under pressure. Lessons from recent disasters, including Cyclone Ditwah, were incorporated into simulation-based exercises.

Officials from the tri-forces, police, civil defence, and multiple ministries participated. The programme highlighted the importance of joint disaster response across the Indo-Pacific region to reduce economic and infrastructure damage.