AUSTRALIAN DEFENCE ADVISERS PAY COURTESY VISIT TO CHIEF OF DEFENCE STAFF

The outgoing Defence Adviser (DA), Captain Ian Cain, and the incoming Defence Adviser Col Amanda Johnston for the Australian High Commission in Colombo paid a courtesy visit to the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Shavendra Silva WWV RWP RSP VSV USP ndc psc MPhil, at his office today (13 December).

Upon their arrival, the CDS warmly welcomed both the visiting envoys. He commended the outgoing Defence Adviser for his successful tenure and extended his warmest wishes for his future career. In the meantime, General Shavendra Silva congratulated the incoming Defence Adviser for his new appointment which is a milestone achievement in the career of any military officer.

Captain Cain, the outgoing DA, expressed his sincere gratitude to the CDS for the support and guidance extended for his successful tenure in Sri Lanka and stated that the vast experience he gained during his stay in the country is invaluable and unique. Further, he highlighted the importance of the DA Orientation Tour in the Island which was an initiative of General Shavendra Silva and conveyed his gratitude for organising such a timely valued programme.

Speaking to the new DA, the CDS highlighted the importance of the role entrusted in Sri Lanka as a Defence Adviser. CDS remarked that the new appointment is a recognition of her capacity and performance. General Shavendra Silva also took time to share some diplomatic experiences from his past and encouraged the new DA to work towards the best interests of both nations. Further, CDS also invited the new DA to explore the island nation during her tenure.

The cordial discussion centered around various matters related to defence cooperation between the Sri Lankan and Australian Defence Forces. The CDS expressed his appreciation for the outgoing Defence Adviser's personal initiatives in the area of military training and the overall support provided by the Australian Armed Forces.

Marking the strong and enduring goodwill between the two defence forces, mementoes were exchanged at the conclusion of the meeting.