Sri Lanka, Dec. 4 -- The United States has transferred a former U.S. Coast Guard cutter, the USCGC EX-DECISIVE, to the Sri Lanka Navy during a ceremony held in Baltimore.

U.S. officials emphasized that the transfer underscores the growing importance of strong maritime cooperation between the two nations, in the midst of Sri Lanka undertaking relief efforts after Cyclone Ditwah, including those conducted via sea routes.

The cutter will also further strengthen defense cooperation between the United States and Sri Lanka, the U.S. Embassy in Colombo said.

In a post on Facebook the U.S. Embassy in Colombo said:

"Proud to support Sri Lanka's maritime readiness with the transfer of a 4th former U.S. Coast Guard cutter, USCGC EX-DECISIVE, to ...