According to the Convention on International Civil Aviation, also known as Chicago Convention, it is a requirement for every state to enter into arrangements with neighboring countries to strengthen its ability to provide Search and Rescue Services in mutual cooperation and coordination with each other when the need for search and rescue arises.

Sri Lanka, being a party to the Convention is under obligation to make arrangements for the effective implementation of the International Standards and Recommended Practices contained in the Convention, which establishes rules of airspace, aircraft registration and safety, and details the rights of the signatories in relation to air travel.

Accordingly, the Government of Sri Lanka will enter into such arrangements with the relevant authorities of Australia, India, Indonesia and Maldives.

The proposal made by Minister of Civil Aviation Priyankara Jayaratne to make arrangements has been approved by the cabinet.