The Chief of Army Staff of India General Manoj Mukund Naravane arrived in Sri Lanka yesterday (12) on a four-day official visit.
The High Commission of India to Sri Lanka said his visit comes on an invitation extended by the Chief of Defence Staff and Commander of the Sri Lanka Army General Shavendra Silva.
General Silva along with President, Army Seva Vanitha Unit (ASVU) Mrs Sujeewa Nelson warmly welcomed Gen Naravane and Mrs Veena Naravane, President, Army Wives Welfare Association (AWWA) at the Bandaranaike International Airport, Colombo.
During his official visit to Sri Lanka, Gen Naravane is scheduled to call on President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa, Defence Secretary, Foreign Secretary and Service Commanders. He would also witness Exercise Mitra Shakti, one of the largest bilateral military exercises in the region. He would also participate in Gajaba Day celebrations as the Chief Guest. The General is also scheduled to deliver a talk at DSCSC, Batalanda, and interact with students and faculty.
The High Commission of India to Sri Lanka said the visit symbolizes strong relations and close cooperation shared between the two countries.
During the visit areas of mutual interest and avenues for enhancing existing bilateral defence cooperation will be discussed, with Sri Lanka being ‘Priority One’ partner of India. The interaction will be conducted whilst strictly adhering to COVID-19 guidelines
Meanwhile, Indian politician, Bharathiya Janatha Party MP Subramaniyam Swamy also arrived in Sri Lanka today on an official visit.
Swamy is in Sri Lanka on a 02-day official visit in a display of major diplomatic ties between India and Sri Lanka.
During his visit, he is set to participate in the Navratri festival hosted by Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa at Temple Trees.
Subramaniyam Swamy will also meet Fisheries Minister Douglas Devananda.
He will also address a forum at the Institute of National Security Studies of the Defence Ministry. (NewsWire)
Dr @Swamy39 participated in the Navaratri Celebrations organised by @PresRajapaksa at his Official PM Residence Temple Tree at Colombo today evening & addressed the gathering present @CassilingamG @senthilTho @JeevanThondaman Douglas Devananda Minister & others pic.twitter.com/bNKutj31YX
— Jagdish Shetty (@jagdishshetty) October 12, 2021