DEFENCE ATTACHES/ADVISERS PAY RESPECT TO SACRED PLACES AT ANURADHAPURA

A delegation of Defence Attaches/Advisers from seven foreign countries touring the North and East arrived at the ancient Anuradhapura kingdom attaching a greater historic significance to their familiarization tour on Wednesday (16) en route to Trincomalee.

On behalf of Major General Vikum Liyanage, General Officer Commanding, 21 Infantry Division HQ at Anuradhapura, Colonel Thushara Harasmana Colonel General Staff, extended a warm welcome to those foreign envoys, their spouses and kids before they were enlightened about the 21 Division 's major responsibilities and community-oriented roles.

The delegation included Defence Attaches from Australia, Bangladesh, India, Maldives, Pakistan, Russia and the USA. During the stay in Anuradhapura, they visited sacred Jaya Sri Maha Bodhiya, Ruwanweli Maha Seya, Samadhi Statue and Kuttampokuna in the sacred area.

They enjoyed refreshments on the Basawakkulama tank bund during their tour before they were entertained to lunch at the Officers ' Mess of the 21 Infantry Division. Prior to their departure, mementos were also exchanged on the occasion. Before their arrival in Anuradhapura, they visited Jaffna and Wanni areas and met respective Commanders.