Defence Secretary attends 5th Anniversary of Chinese National Defence University Alumni Association

The 5^th anniversary celebration of the Chinese National Defence University Alumni Association of Sri Lanka (CNDUAASL) was held today (14 Sep) at Waters Edge, Battaramulla under the distinguished patronage of His Excellency Qi Zhenhong, Ambassador of the People's Republic of China to Sri Lanka.

Defence Secretary Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha (Retd) attended the ceremony as Guest of honour.

Delivering the keynote address, AVM Sampath Thuyacontha (Retd) highlighted the enduring strategic partnership and shared values between Sri Lanka and China.

"Our shared history of anti-colonial struggle, our mutual respect for sovereignty, and our joint commitment to peaceful development underpin the enduring friendship between our nations," the Defence Secretary stated. He further emphasized that Sri Lanka and China will continue to support each other in preserving historical memory, promoting a just world order, and fostering international cooperation.

The establishment of the Chinese NDU Alumni Association of Sri Lanka aims to further foster mutually beneficial relations among its graduates, the majority of whom belong to the Army, Navy, and Air Force of Sri Lanka. Furthermore, it is expected to promote a network of professional contacts and a pool of resources to enhance both national and international connectivity.

The event was attended by Army and Air Force Commanders, former Tri- service Commanders, senior military Officers, members of the Diplomatic Corps, and alumni of CNDUAASL, reflecting the depth of defence and diplomatic ties between the two nations.

The ceremony served as a platform to reaffirm the strong bonds of military education, strategic dialogue, and mutual respect fostered through the Chinese National Defence University alumni network.