Defence Secretary marks his maiden visit to Army HQ

Defence Secretary Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha (Retd) visited the Sri Lanka Army (SLA) Headquarters located at the Defence Headquarters Complex, Sri Jayawardenepura, Kotte today (Oct 28).

This is the first official visit undertaken by the Defence Secretary to the Army Headquarters since assuming office as the Secretary to the Ministry Defence.

The Defence Secretary was respectfully received by the Adjutant General of the Army, Major General Chamila Munasinghe set with a Guard of Honour upon his arrival.

The Commander of the Army Lieutenant General Vikum Liyanage, then extended a warm welcome to the Defence Secretary before ushering him to introduce the Senior Officers of the Army Headquarters.

Subsequently, the Defence Secretary and the Army commander sat for a cordial discussion and had a brief exchange of views. AVM Thuyacontha (Retd) then presided over a discussion with the Senior Officers of the Army Headquarters.

Addressing the troops after a welcome note, Defence Secretary appreciated the efforts of SLA on its contribution towards the country's development process, acting with national security as the priority while paying due attention to possible riots, natural disasters and epidemics.

Afterwards, AVM Thuyacontha (Retd) made a complimentary note in the Visitors' Book and mementoes were also exchanged to mark the event.

Chief of Staff of Sri Lanka Army, Military Liaison Officer of the Ministry of Defence, Officers of the Army Headquarters, Other Ranks and Civilian Staff also joined the occasion.