CDS HOLDS BILATERAL TALKS WITH THE KENYAN DEFENCE HIERARCHY

After receiving a warm reception and military honours, General Shavendra Silva WWV RWP RSP VSV USP ndc psc MPhil, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) of Sri Lanka, held a discussion with General Francis Omondi Ogolla EGH EBS HSC ‘ndc’(K) ‘psc’(FRA), the Chief of the Defence Forces (CDF) of Kenya, along with the Vice Chief of the Defence Forces (VCDF), Army, Navy, and Air Force Commanders, and other distinguished Senior Officers.

During the discussions, General Shavendra Silva expressed gratitude for the invitation and lauded his counterpart's dedication to fostering robust military cooperation with friendly foreign nations. Various military-related matters were deliberated upon, encompassing the strengthening of bilateral military relations between Kenya and Sri Lanka, joint military training initiatives, enhancement of military capabilities, and participation in Peace Support Operations. Further, the CDS provided insights into contemporary global and African regional defence perspectives. He shared valuable experiences gained from humanitarian operations in Sri Lanka and the application of innovative tactical concepts, stressing their effectiveness in meeting novel military challenges.

Similarly, CDS emphasised the importance of expanding training opportunities for Kenyan military personnel across several military training institutes in Sri Lanka, aiming to leverage the wealth of war experience within the Sri Lankan military. The discussions further delved into topics such as peacekeeping initiatives, military-industrial opportunities, and the prospect of forging defence agreements between the two nations. The CDS also extended invitations to the Kenyan military to participate in upcoming military symposiums and dialogues held in Sri Lanka such as the Galle Dialogue, the Colombo Air Symposium, and the Colombo Symposium (Army).

Both military leaders underscored their commitment to fostering cohesive collaboration between the two countries, not only in enhancing human resources but also in modernising and streamlining operational processes. The Kenyan CDF greatly appreciated the CDS’ comprehensive insights, acknowledging his valuable perspectives and offering opportunities to enhance Kenyan military capabilities.

Amidst the visit, General Shavendra Silva paid a courtesy call to Kenyan Defence Minister, Honorable Aden Bare Duale EHG MP, and had a conversation centered on fortifying bilateral defence ties. The Kenyan CDF and High Commissioner of Sri Lanka to Kenya His Excellency Veluppillai Kananathan also attended the deliberations.

Subsequently, the CDS embarked on a visit to the Uhuru Gardens National Museum and Monument (UGNM&M), a revered site chosen by Kenya's founding fathers to commemorate Independence Day in 1963 and the attainment of republic status in 1964. Today, it stands as a poignant location for commemorating and reflecting upon the nation's struggle for freedom and its post-independence triumphs.