Saturday, 03 November 2007

Paying a tribute to the success of the Sri Lanka Military Forces President Mahinda Rajapaksa said that he is grateful to them profoundly and consider them as the most disciplined Force in the world.
President Rajapaksa made this assertion at Seenimodera in Tangalle in handing over the Rana Setha Rana Viru Housing Complex consisting of 88 housing units to families of disabled Rana Viru (War Heroes) who had sacrificed their lives and limbs to protect the territorial integrity and the sovereignty of their Motherland.

“They are fighting with commitment to salvage the country from the grip of ruthless terrorism. They are dedicated towards an ultimate victory.” he added.

The President said that our War Heroes are fighting for a cause, with a vision and a mission.

He pointed out that there was an era when the youth of the country shunned a way from joining the Forces. The tide has changed now their yearning and very keen to join the forces. This shows their patriotism and dedication to the cause of the country.

A suicidal terrorist could re-appear anywhere, anytime. There could be ad-hoc and isolated bomb blasts and steps taken to strengthen the security of the people. This ought to be expected. However the Forces’ Chiefs, Defence Secretary or the Government are not prepared to resign as demanded by the Opposition,” he said.

President reiterated “We are consistently talking and seeking peace. We are committed to an honourable peace. Nevertheless, the LTTE cannot impose conditions on us, as they did in the past, where agreements were signed with closed eyes, resulting in the betrayal of our country,”

“This is not a war of the Rajapaksa family, the Armed Forces, war heroes or any other individual. It is the duty of all citizens who ought to be vigilant of their surroundings and any incident. One and all should rally round the Government, considering it their obligation and service to the nation,” the President added.

Ven. Omalpe Sobitha Thera, Minister Felix Perera, Hambantota Divisional Secretary, R.M.B.B. Meegasmulla, J.R.P. Suriyapperuma and several others participated.