Sri Lankan Army Chief Lt Gen NUMMW Senanayake on Saturday witnessed a tactical drill demonstration on a raid on a terrorists hideout by the Indian Army contingent and appreciated them of their efficient skills at the ongoing joint military exercise “Mitra Shakti” at Diyatalawa parade ground in Badulla district of Sri Lanka.
The exercise which was commenced on March 26, has entered into fifth days with armies of both the nations training together and displaying a spirit of bonhomie.
“India and Sri Lanka share 1000 years old relationship and both the Indian Army and the Sri Lankan Army are professional armies with vast and varied operational experience and I am happy to note that both the friendly countries’ armies are training together displaying a spirit of bonhomie, thereby underlining the people to people contact, peace in the region and mutual goodwill,” Lt Gen Senanayeke said.
The Army Chief also expressed his gratitude towards the Indian Army officers and jawans who sacrificed their lives towards ensuring peace in and sovereignty of Sri Lanka.
Started in 2013, Exercise Mitra Shakti is in continuation of a series of joint exercises that is conducted annually as part of military diplomacy and interaction between the armies of India & Sri Lanka.
The exercise provides an ideal platform for both contingents to share their operational experience and expertise while also being instrumental in broadening the interoperability and cooperation between the armies of India and Sri Lanka.
The drill will conclude on April 6.
