President says statements detrimental to national security must be avoided

President Maithripala Sirisena requested everyone to refrain from making statements which are detrimental to the national security of the country.

He made these remarks participating in a ceremony to present ‘Rana Parashuwa’ and the ‘Regimental Rana Purashuwa’ to the Sri Lanka Army Special Forces marking the presentation of the President’s and Regimental Colours yesterday (16).

Addressing the gathering President further said that no one should make statements that would endanger the future of the Motherland as well as the nation to achieve narrow political gains.

President Sirisena extending his gratitude to the security forces for their contribution to protect the national security, independence and democracy of the country said that the entire nation is indebted to them for their service.

The President said that no one could be allowed to underestimate their invaluable service to achieve degraded political interests adding that he was deeply saddened to hear statements made by certain persons, who have led the Army, disguised under narrow political agendas.

He said at present the national security of the country has been ensured to a maximum level by the Government jointly with the security forces and that there is no room in Sri Lanka for acts of terrorism again.

President Sirisena as the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces was warmly welcomed when he arrived at the Regimental Headquarters, Naula.

The President paid floral tributes to the War Heroes Memorial in the premises.

This is the first time in the history that the Pauranika Rana Parashu award was awarded as the symbol of heroism.

Special Presidential Rana Parishu Award and Regimental War Hero Award are great honour for the Special Forces that can be used whenever a colour regiment is used to commemorate the invaluable service rendered by the Special Forces.  Meanwhile, the headquarters building of the Special Forces Regiment Centre was declared open by the President Sirisena, who also unveiled the commemorative plaque and opened the office.

Sectary General of Defence Major Gen. Shantha Kottegoda and Head of the Security Council, Commanders of the Armed Forces, Colonel Chandimal Peries, Commander-in-Chief of Special Forces and Chiefs of the Army were also present on this occasion.