Sri Lanka, France discuss maritime training school in Sri Lanka

State Defence Minister Premitha Bandara Tennakoon discussed the possibility of establishing a maritime training school in Sri Lanka last week, with the French Ambassador Jean-François Pactet.

The matter figured when the French Ambassador paid a courtesy call on the State Minister.

Tennakoon said the maritime training school would be beneficial to both countries as Sri Lanka has one of the highest literacy rates in the world.

During the meeting the State Minister recalled the long standing diplomatic ties between France and Sri Lanka since 1948 and excellent bilateral relations that have stood the test of time for 75 years and that it should continue for many more years.

The French Ambassador was accompanied by Mission Deputy Head Aurélien Maillet and Military Technical Cooperation Maritime Security Officer Commander Jean-Baptiste Trouche.

Ministry of Defence Military Liaison Officer Brigadier Dammika Welagedara was also present.