Colombo: Acting Minister of Defence Major General Aruna Jayasekara (Retd) visited the Turkish Navy ship TCG Bykada (F-512) on Friday (June 13). He was warmly welcomed on board by the Ambassador of Trkiye to Sri Lanka, His Excellency Semih Ltf Turgut, and the ship’s Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Commander Anul Bilgin.

According to Ministry of Defence – Sri Lanka, the Turkish envoy appreciated Sri Lanka’s commitment to regional stability during his welcome speech and emphasized the importance of maintaining a strong bilateral relationship between the two nations. Major General Jayasekara addressed the gathering, underscoring the significance of the Turkish Navy ship’s presence in Sri Lankan waters as a symbol of growing defence cooperation and friendship.

The Acting Minister shared that he had a productive meeting with the Turkish Ambassador, the Military Attaché, and the ship’s Commanding Officer earlier in the day. The discussions focused on avenues for strengthening bilateral defence ties. He praised Trki
ye’s consistent support in modernizing Sri Lanka’s naval capabilities and emphasized the shared vision of both nations for a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

Major General Jayasekara also highlighted Trkiye’s role as a leader in defence technology, particularly in the maritime and aerospace sectors, noting its globally competitive industry known for innovation and self-reliance. He embarked on a guided tour of the ship, accompanied by the ship’s commanding officer.

Retired commanders of the Sri Lanka Navy, senior naval officers, members of the diplomatic corps, Defence Attaché of the Turkish embassy Colonel Servet Okumus, and many distinguished guests were also present at the occasion.