Sri Lanka’s security:

India eternally vigilant - Indian Air Chief

India is eternally vigilant about the security of Sri Lanka because Sri Lanka’s security means India’s security as well, said the visiting Chief of Air Staff of the Indian Air Force Air Chief Marshal P V Naik when he called on Prime Minister D M Jayaratne yesterday.

The meeting took place at the Prime Ministers office.

Air Chief Marshal Naik who emphasized the need for both countries to enhance their security said military co-operation between them should also be further strengthened concurrent to the widening of diplomatic, political and social relations.

It is with this objective in view that he undertook his current visit to Sri Lanka, he said.

The Air Chief Marshal who described Sri Lanka as a country rich in natural beauty said he observed the country marching towards development goals after the war.

He also noted that Sri Lanka is a popular tourist destination due to its natural beauty and myriad of tourist attractions.

Prime Minister D M Jayaratne said Sri Lanka greatly appreciated the generous support and assistance extended by India, which is its closest neighbour. It was important for both countries to reach new heights in military co-operation as well.

The Prime Minister who noted that an accelerated development program was in progress in the North and South following the ending of war added that the Government’s endeavour was to make the hopes and aspirations of the Tamils in the North and East a reality while catering to the needs of other communities too.

The visiting Air Chief was accompanied by Air Commodore Vivek Ram Chandhir and Indian High Commissioner Ashok K Kantha.