INSUBCONTINENT EXCLUSIVE:
President Ranil Wickremesinghe, emphasizing the monumental responsibility borne by the security forces, underscored that protecting the
sovereignty of the country is paramount
The President further stated that no external interference or restriction shall be tolerated.President Wickremesinghe, serving as the Chief
Guest at the Parade of Cadet Officers during the ceremony of Colours Re-Awarding and Commissioning Parade of Sri Lanka Military Academy,
Diyatalawa, renowned as the premier officer training institute that has produced esteemed leaders for the nation and the Sri Lanka Army,
took place.During the ceremony, a total of 274 cadets successfully completed their training and were officially appointed to their
Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, actively participated in the inspection of the Colours Re-Awarding and Commissioning Parade, where
he bestowed the championship award upon the best cadet team and presented a sword to the outstanding cadets.On October 14, 1972, the
William Gopallava, the President at that time
Additionally, on June 20, 1997, another significant presentation occurred when the then President, Mrs
This act holds immense significance, symbolizing continuity and a commitment to the rich traditions of the Diyatalawa Military Academy, the
statement said.Following the Colours Re-Awarding and Commissioning Parade, President Ranil Wickremesinghe participated in a group photograph
with the cadet officers, capturing the shared moment of achievement and camaraderie
Diyatalawa Military Academy premises.In his address, President Wickremesinghe expressed his admiration for the Sri Lankan Army,
acknowledging its talent and proud history
He underscored the collective responsibility of all individuals joining the army to uphold its esteemed legacy.Addressing the officers and
women present, the President urged them to provide fearless leadership to those under their command
Emphasizing that true leadership emerges during challenging times, he encouraged everyone to dedicate themselves to fulfilling their
responsibilities for the betterment of the country.President Ranil Wickremesinghe further highlighted the prestigious standing of Diyatalawa
Military Academy, recognizing it as an institution with an international reputation
Addressing the newly commissioned officers, he acknowledged the significance of completing training in such a distinguished establishment
He underscored that the sovereignty of the country belongs to its people, with governments elected through popular vote
The President emphasized the foundational importance of the Sri Lankan identity, urging all citizens, irrespective of ethnicity Sinhala,
Tamil and Muslim, to work collectively to safeguard and preserve the national identity.Turning his attention to economic matters, President
Wickremesinghe stressed the need for increased economic growth in the country
He drew attention to the consequences of a collapsing economy, noting its impact on the overall vitality of the nation
The President emphasized the importance of social progress alongside economic advancement, highlighting the need for equal treatment of all
He called upon each group within society to play a role in protecting this framework, extending the responsibility from the President
downwards.The President emphasized the profound responsibility of the army in safeguarding the sovereignty of the country
He asserted that this duty should remain unquestionable and impervious to any attempts to restrict or compromise it
He warned against any actions or attempts to fracture the national identity based on racism or religion, emphasizing the potential harm such
endeavours could inflict on the essence of Sri Lanka.Acknowledging the rich history of the Sri Lanka Army, the President highlighted its
distinguished position in the establishment of modern armies in Asia
He noted that by the time the Ceylon Infantry was founded in 1881, Sri Lanka had become the fourth nation to establish such a military force
history.President Wickremesinghe directed the newly appointed cadet officers to embrace their responsibility in safeguarding the esteemed
reputation of the Sri Lanka Army
fearless leadership during challenging circumstances
The President implored the officers not to neglect their duties, particularly in times of adversity, highlighting the crucial role
leadership plays in such moments
He earnestly requested everyone to be mindful of their responsibilities and to diligently fulfil their duties for the greater good of the
country.The event was attended by dignitaries including State Minister for Defence Pramitha Bandara Thennakoon, Secretary of the Ministry of
Defence General Kamal Gunaratne (Retired), Chief of Defence Staff General Shavendra Silva, Army Commander Lt
Vikum Liyanage, Commandant of the Military Academy Major General M.T.I
Mahalekam, senior Army officers, cadets, and a group of guests, including the parents of the cadets.--PMD
