Deputy Minister of Defence Addresses Senior Tri Forces Officers in the Eastern Region

On Wednesday (03 Jun), in a wide ranging address to senior tri forces officers in the Eastern Region, the Deputy Minister of Defence, Major General Aruna Jayasekara (Retd), noted that national security is reinforced by a resilient economy and institutions that embody accountability, transparency and good governance.

The Deputy Minister opened his remarks by expressing profound gratitude and appreciation on behalf of His Excellency the President to all ranks of the Army, Navy, and Air Force. He commended their unwavering commitment and selflessness, particularly highlighting their tireless dedication during natural disasters and national crises, where their timely interventions have consistently safeguarded civilian lives and property.

Reflecting on the country's recent turbulence, the Deputy Minister noted that the gravest threats to national security are not external but internal, specifically organized crimes, state corruption, and the erosion of moral values. He emphasized that economic discipline is the pathway to lasting national security and reaffirmed that the present government has imposed strict fiscal discipline to achieve that objective.

Moreover, he observed that the deeper decay of moral values and social discipline remains a pressing issue in contemporary society, with a direct impact on military personnel as well. He called for a return to social harmony, rejecting all forms of ethnic or religious division.

The Deputy Minister emphasized the importance of exercising entrusted powers and managing state assets responsibly, guided by professionalism, transparency, and public service values. He also underscored the need for strict adherence to tri forces policies and regulations to ensure discipline and uphold the pride of the armed forces, stating that no mercy would be shown to anyone who breaches them.

He also announced that several major initiatives have already been undertaken to achieve these aspirations, including increased engagement in UN Peacekeeping Operations, the "Warriorpreneurship" program, designed to transform retired and retiring military veterans into entrepreneurs, and collaboration with relevant stakeholders to secure Merchant Navy certification for retired and retiring naval personnel.

In separate engagements, the Deputy Minister visited the 22 Infantry Division, the Eastern Naval Command, and the SLAF Academy in China Bay, Trincomalee. Following comprehensive briefings, he personally addressed officers and interacted with senior non commissioned officers, regimental sergeant majors, and civilian staff, ensuring that their concerns and needs were heard during visits.

The address at the 22 Infantry Division was attended by the Air Force Commander, Commander Security Forces (East), General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 22 and 23 Infantry Divisions, Area Commander of the Eastern Naval Area, Commandant of the SLAF Academy, China Bay as well as senior tri forces officers in the area of responsibility.