Archives

By Sarath Malalasekera

Army Commander Lt. General Lionel Balagalle said yesterday that the rays of peace had dawned on Sri Lanka.

The LTTE which staged an armed struggle for separation has abandoned its secessionist moves and entered into negotiations accepting devolution of power under a unitary state, the Commander said.

"I consider this a blessing to Sri Lankans" he said, addressing Army personnel on the 53rd Anniversary of the Sri Lanka Army.

Lt. Gen.Balagalle inspected the parade presented by 50 Army personnel led by Captain Wijesekera at the Army Headquarters.

'All of you, major contributors responsible for paving the way for this hope of peace, therefore deserve the Nation's salute for your distinguished service,' the Army Commander said addressing all ranks.

"On this occasion my gratitude goes to all officers and men who are dedicated and joined together to defend Sri Lanka's territorial integrity and sovereignty and also to all parents, teachers and adults whose patriotic passion for the progress of the land, provided necessary encouragement, strength and blessing to their offspring for enlistment to the Army."

The Commander paid tribute to all retired officers and other ranks, whose dedicated contribution during this 53 years saw Sri Lanka Army reach its present state.

The Commander recalled with respect the invaluable sacrifices made by all War Heroes missing in action and also those who were disabled.

"Their sacrifice for the glory of the Nation will be inscribed in gold in Sri Lanka's annals."

We, whose legacy records a history of over 2500 years, have today reached a decisive milestone in its quest for peace.

Your, cooperation to overcome that stage is essentially required. it is a duty as well as responsibility befallen all of us to extend necessary support duly towards transforming the ongoing peace negotiations, born of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed between the Sri Lanka Government and the LTTE into a process of lasting peace.

To our credit in the recent past, we have successfully managed to overcome many decisive phases', the Army Commander added

Lt. Gen. Balagalle paid tribute to all officers and men who on such occasions acted with responsibility and patience for the sake of achieving peace

"The international as well as the local community has commended the role played by all members of the Army," he said.

"If terrorism, in whatever form, raises its head again it is incumbent upon us to have the total military might with us to defeat such endeavour.

Therefore, we should also be determined, after undergoing required training, to join hands together and maintain highest levels of discipline," Balagalle added.

News | Business | Features | Editorial | Security
Politics | World | Letters | Sports | Obituaries |

Produced by Lake House
Copyright 2001 The Associated Newspapers of Ceylon Ltd.
Comments and suggestions to :Web Manager