Monday, 17 September 2007

File PhotoSpeaking on the victory of the Sri Lankan Navy in destroying three LTTE navel warehouses in south eastern seas, the Secretary to the Defence Gotabhya Rajapaksa emphasised that this was not an instance of one community outdoing another. “It is a fight against ruthless terrorism,” he said.

Speaking further, the Secretary added that the Sri Lankan forces were determined to eliminate terrorism as it is a humanitarian urgency and not with any intention of causing loss of life to any.

Safeguarding the sovereignty of the country was the prime concern of our defence forces. The destruction of the three LTTE vessels could be considered the peak of their victory through the training and dedication Sri Lankan navy has borne over the years.

This victory would go down in history as one unparalleled. It is the duty of every countryman to give their highest cooperation to the three security forces and the police in their endeavour to wipe out terrorism and protect the country and civilian life. It is not possible to establish peace until the LTTE completely defeated.

The Secretary also added that the Government would not hesitate to allocate funds for the forces to recruit new officers, purchase of equipment and necessary training. Once terrorism is eradicated, the Government would not hesitate to negotiate an honourable political settlement to the ethnic conflict.

The felicitation ceremony was conducted under the auspices of President Mahinda Rajapaksa who graced the occasion and gave away the awards to the naval officers who made their contribution to the historical victory.

The ceremony was held at the Eastern Navy Headquarters in Trincomalee upon the return of the victorious naval vessels today (17).

President has inaugurated the new jetty at the Trincomallee port this morning.