Colombo: The Deputy Minister of Defence, Major General Aruna Jayasekara (Retd), visited the Sri Lanka Army Headquarters on the occasion of the 76th Army Anniversary. He was welcomed by the Commander of the Army, Lieutenant General Lasantha Rodrigo, and received a ceremonial reception.
According to Ministry of Defence – Sri Lanka, Major General Jayasekara, representing the President, commended the Sri Lanka Army for its dedication to protecting national sovereignty, aiding post-conflict rebuilding, and efficiently handling natural disasters and national emergencies. Drawing from his own military background, he stressed the foundational role of discipline in military professionalism and urged leaders to embody and enforce these standards.
The Deputy Minister stressed the significance of maintaining professional standards along with transparency and accountability. He advocated for a flexible, adaptive strategy to address changing national security and development challenges.
On the topic of corruption, he un
derscored the necessity for integrity in managing military resources, noting that corruption undermines public trust and core military values. He called for transparency and accountability to be prioritized at every level of command.
Highlighting command responsibility, the Deputy Minister emphasized the importance of operational efficiency and the welfare of soldiers, including their well-being, growth, and readiness. He also pointed out the need to care for disabled and retired personnel and families of war heroes.
He addressed the security of arms and ammunition, insisting on strict supervision, improved inventory practices, and safeguarding military assets. The Deputy Minister closed his address by reaffirming government support for the Sri Lanka Army and expressing confidence in its future capabilities.
A distinguished group of senior officers, including the Chief of Staff, Principal Staff Officers, Directors, and other high-ranking officials, attended the Deputy Minister’s address at the Army Headqua
rters.