PM tells midshipmen:

Be loyal to Nation

Rafik Jalaldeen in Trincomalee

Prime Minister Ratnasiri Wickramanayaka appealed to the 25 passing out Midshipmen to be loyal to the Nation and contribute to the country's development.

The passing out parade of the 46th and 47th Intake Midshipmen was held at the Trincomalee Naval Base yesterday.

Addressing the ceremony, Prime Minister Wickramanayaka said the Navy had given its upmost contribution to defeat terrorism shoulder to shoulder with the Army and the Air Force. "Your part in eradicating terrorism was significant," he added.

He noted that the passing out Midshipmen have excelled in both knowledge and trained skills; and should be used for the betterment of the country.

"You are academically and nautically qualified and it is your duty to serve the Nation under the Commander in Chief President Mahinda Rajapaksa," he added. The Prime Minister requested the passing out Midshipmen to be loyal to the Nation. He said even though the war was over, the contribution of Armed Forces was still needed.

Prime Minister Wickramanayaka observed that the Government is engaged in massive development in the country. "We must get together to rebuild the country. Your contribution to develop the country is very important," he added.