NEW INDIAN DEFENCE ADVISER PAID A COURTESY CALL ON CDS

Respecting the military traditions, the newly appointed Defence Adviser (DA) to the High Commission of India in Sri Lanka, Captain (IN) Anand Mukundan, paid a courtesy call on the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Shavendra Silva WWV RWP RSP VSV USP ndc psc MPhil, at his office today (20 November).

Extending a warm welcome to the new DA, General Shavendra Silva congratulated Captain Mukundan on his new prestigious appointment. During the cordial dialogue, CDS briefed the long rooted mutual ties that existed from times immemorial and the present military relations between the two countries. CDS also made it an opportunity to thank the armed forces of India for continuing to strengthen our armed forces in times of need in numerous means. CDS particularly expressed his gratefulness for the training opportunities that India has offered to train the members of the Sri Lankan armed forces and reminded the reciprocal training offered by Sri Lanka too.

CDS also gratefully reminded about the reciprocal cultural visits between the armed forces of India and Sri Lanka including their family members that first operated when General Shavendra Silva was the Commander of the Army. The CDS also explained to the new DA the cordial relations that he had with the former chiefs of the Indian Army, Navy and Air Force and even the existing bonds with the present Chief of Defence Staff of India.

Highlighting the importance of the role entrusted in Sri Lanka as a Defence Adviser, CDS remarked that his new appointment is a recognition of his 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 invited the new DA to explore the island nation and share the knowledge gained with the officers of the Indian armed forces.

In response, Captain Anand Mukundan expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the CDS for the warm welcome and the valuable briefing. He also thanked General Shavendra Silva for his well-wishes, stressing that the shared experiences would be instrumental in successfully discharging his responsibilities in the new appointment.

As a symbol of mutual respect and collaboration, mementos were exchanged towards the end of the meeting.