THE AMBASSADOR OF TÜRKIYE TO SRI LANKA PAYS A FAREWELL CALL TO THE CHIEF OF DEFENCE STAFF

Marking the conclusion of Her Excellency's tenure in Sri Lanka, the Ambassador of the Republic of Türkiye, Her Excellency R. Demet Sekercioglu called on the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Shavendra Silva WWV RWP RSP VSV USP ndc psc MPhil at the Office of the Chief of Defence Staff (OCDS) this morning (08 April 2024).

During the farewell call, the CDS warmly welcomed the Ambassador to the OCDS, reflecting the strong and cordial relations maintained between the two nations throughout her ambassadorship. The CDS expressed his gratitude to the people of Türkiye and the nation as a whole for their significant contributions rendered in enhancing the capabilities of the Sri Lankan Armed Forces during her tenure.

General Shavendra Silva also underscored the paramount importance of fostering and nurturing sustained cooperation and collaboration between the two nations as they stride into the future. He extended best wishes to Her Excellency Ambassador Sekercioglu for her future endeavours, conveying confidence in the enduring partnership between Sri Lanka and Türkiye.

In reciprocation, Her Excellency Demet Sekercioglu expressed her appreciation to the CDS for the assistance and support received during her tenure in Sri Lanka. Especially, she took time to express her gratefulness to the CDS for his invaluable assistance provided to the embassy of Türkiye in Colombo and the Turkish people in Sri Lanka during the challenging period of the COVID-19 pandemic, in his capacity as the Head of the National Operation Centre for Prevention of COVID- 19 Outbreak (NOCPCO). She hailed the CDS’s commitment and crucial role in managing and mitigating the impact of the pandemic in Sri Lanka.

Furthermore, she expressed her delight at having served in Sri Lanka, where rich culture intertwines with the warm hospitality of the people. She cherished the opportunity to contribute to the enduring bonds between Türkiye and Sri Lanka, affirming her persistent commitment to nurturing and strengthening the invaluable relations.

As a token of appreciation and to commemorate the occasion, the CDS and Ambassador Demet Sekercioglu exchanged mementoes, symbolising the historic ties between the two countries. The Ambassador also left her sentiments in the Visitors’ Book of the OCDS, reflecting on her time in Sri Lanka and expressing hope for the continued friendship and cooperation between Türkiye and Sri Lanka.