Defence Secretary makes maiden visit to SL Navy Headquarters

Defence Secretary Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha (Retd) made his first official visit to the Navy Headquarters since assuming office as Defence Secretary, today (November 06).

The Defence Secretary was received by the Commander Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Chinthaka Kumarasinghe, and was accorded a Guard of Honour by Navy troops on his arrival at the Naval Headquarters this morning.

Navy Commander Vice Admiral Priyantha Perera extended a warm welcome to the Defence Secretary before ushering him to introduce the senior officers at the Navy Headquarters.

Subsequently, the Defence Secretary and the Navy Commander sat for a cordial discussion where matters of importance and mutual relevance were discussed. This was followed by a presentation on the structure, role and operations of the Navy conducted by the senior naval officers.

Addressing the naval personnel, the Defence Secretary recollected the contribution of the Navy in ending the brutal three decade long terrorist war and appreciated its contribution in protecting the country's marine resources, facing challenges in shallow and high seas to ensure national security and to curb illegal trafficking in our waters.

Before concluding his visit, the Defence Secretary exchanged mementos with the Navy Commander and also left compliments in the Visitors' book.

Navy Chief of Staff Rear Admiral Kanchana Banagoda, Military Liaison Officer of the Ministry of Defence, senior Navy officers and other naval personnel were present at the occasion.