Secretary Defence visits Kilinochchi and Mullaitivu

Commencing his second day of visit in the Jaffna peninsula on Sunday Defence Secretary BMUD Basnayake was briefed on the Security Forces deployment, land issues, military assistance extended for community welfare and development in the region together with the current state-of-affairs, the Governemnt Information Department said. Subsequently, the defence delegation led by Basnayake arrived in Kilinochchi and Mullaithivu districts respectively. Secretary Defence was accompanied by the Commander of the Army and the Ministry Officials including Mrs. Wasantha Perera, Additional Secretary Parliament and Civil Affairs during the official visit. On his arrival at the Security Forces Headquarters (SFHQ) in Kilinochchi, the visiting high official was warmly received by the Commander Security Forces Headquarters Kilinochchi Major General S Ranasinghe in a function replete with military traditions while presenting a drive-past. Basnayake planted a tree sapling at the SFHQ Kilinochchi office complex premises to mark the visit. A memento was also presented to the visiting high official as a symbolic gesture. On successful conclusion of the meeting, visiting delegation arrived in Mullaithivu District. Similarly, following to a warm welcome comprised of military customs and drive-past Secretary Defence was enlightened on the regional security forces deployment, armed forces assistance extended for community welfare, land issues and the current situation in a comprehensive presentation by the Commander Security Forces Headquarters Mullaithivu (SFHQ MLT) Major General PUS Vithanage at the SFHQ MLT conference hall. Basnayake planted a tree sapling at the SFHQ MLT office complex premises to mark the visit. A memento was also presented to the visiting high official as a symbolic gesture.