Colombo: Deputy Minister of Defence, Major General Aruna Jayasekara (Retd), made his inaugural visit to the Navy Headquarters on Monday, where he was greeted with a traditional Guard of Honour. The Commander of the Navy, Vice Admiral Kanchana Banagoda, warmly welcomed him upon his arrival.

According to Ministry of Defence – Sri Lanka, the Deputy Minister engaged in a productive dialogue with the Commander of the Navy. This meeting concluded with a ceremonial exchange of mementoes, marking the significance of the occasion. The Director General Operations provided a detailed briefing on the Sri Lanka Navy’s organizational framework, naval diplomacy efforts, challenges, research and development, and strategic future plans.

Addressing the Navy’s Board of Management, Major General Jayasekara underscored the Navy’s critical role as a strategic force essential to national security. He also praised the Navy for its commitment to safeguarding the nation’s maritime interests and emphasized the significant responsibility borne by the Navy as an island nation’s primary maritime force.

The Deputy Minister acknowledged the Navy’s active involvement in the ‘Clean Sri Lanka’ initiative, lauding its contribution to environmental sustainability. He noted the critical role of naval personnel in supporting national development and policy implementation.

Major General Jayasekara recognized the Sri Lanka Navy’s international reputation as a formidable maritime force. He stressed the importance of continuous advancement in capabilities, technological expertise, and professional excellence, urging officers and sailors to enhance their skills and knowledge and to foster a culture of professionalism and innovation.

Concluding his visit, the Deputy Minister engaged with naval personnel and civil staff, acknowledging their dedication and sharing moments of camaraderie.