This is the first formal visit to the security forces personnel in the East undertaken by President Sirisena since assuming office. A Guard of Honour was presented to the President by the Sri Lanka Engineers troops of the SFHQ-E. Later he planted a tree to mark this historic occasion.
Secretary to the Ministry of Defence Mr. BMUD Basnayake was also present at the occasion.
Addressing the officers and other ranks who had gathered there in large numbers the President said that Sri Lanka has a long and prestigious history that goes back thousands of years and all Sri Lankans are well aware of the sacrifices of the security forces in their fight to safeguard the territorial integrity and sovereignty of the country. Going back through our long history he recalled the deeds of the two great kings of Lanka, King Vijayabahu and Prakramabahu the great in defeating invading powers and uniting the country.
Outlining the importance of the Eastern region in the eelam war as the denying of water from the Mawil Aru tank to the Easter farmers commenced the humanitarian operations in 2006 and eventually ended at the banks of Nandikadal in May 2009 eliminating the last of the terrorist leaders and liberating the country.
Our security forces marched forward with courage, commitment and dedication in their fight against terrorism and saved the country, he said. The President further said that the last period of the humanitarian operations was also of personal importance to him as it was he who was functioning as the acting minister of defence as both the then President and Prime Minister were away from the country.
He assured his personal attention in providing every aspect of welfare facilities to the tri-service personnel.
He outlined the importance of the East in the socio economic development of the region and appreciated the contribution of the security forces to the development of the country.
President Sirisena revealed that action has been taken to devise a comprehensive national security plan through the National Security Council.
The President said that our security forces are internationally known to be a well-disciplined force and the government has requested the UN to provide more opportunities in peace keeping missions abroad.
During his visit the President took time to mingle with the troops and talk with them.
Commander of the Army Lieutenant General Crishanthe De Silva, Commander, Security Force Headquarters - East (SFHQ-E) Major General Janaka Walgama and a large number of senior military officers were also present at the occasion.
