The State Minister of Defence Hon. Ruwan Wijewardene arrived at the Northern Province while commencing his first official visit to the Military Establishments today (6th Feb). Chief of Defence Staff, Tri-Forces Commanders, Security Forces Commander - Jaffna and the regional heads of respective forces welcomed the Minister on his arrival at the Palaly Air Port. In the outset of the proceedings of the visit, Minister Wijewardene laid floral tributes at the Fallen War Hero 's cenotaph at the Security Forces Headquarters in Jaffna (SFHQ-J). During the visit Minister also addressed a cross-section of Northern based troops and pledged that, strength of the northern troops wouldn 't be reduced and the prevailing number of military bases would be functioned without dismantling. The national security would not be disregarded at any cost and it would be further strengthened, he noted. Minister went on to say that, priority would be given to enhance the professionalism of the troops and the opportunities to join with the peacekeeping missions would also be enhanced in due course while making closer ties with respective foreign nations. Further speaking he recalled on the heroic deeds of the valiant war heroes and differently-able soldiers. Minister reiterated that he would act dedicatedly to create a better tomorrow for all the military personnel. Afterwards, Minister Wijewardene was briefed on the security forces deployments and military cooperation in the province with a comprehensive presentation at the main conference hall of the SFHQ-J. While enjoying the evening tea in an all rank gathering at the gymnasium Minister also exchanged pleasantries with the security forces personnel. Non commissioned rank accommodation facilities of 3rd Sri Lanka Signal Crops were also came under the inspection of the visiting State Defence Minister.\r\nIn the late evening of the schedule, Minister went on a town visit in the Jaffna peninsula with the military officials and in the meantime paid homage to the significant places of religious importance in the area. The visiting high official was presented a memento to mark the first official visit to Jaffna during the session. Meanwhile, Minister Wijewardene also noted his cherished memories and remarks of the official visit in SFHQ-J Guest Book. Courtesy : www.defence.lk
