27th January 2022 12:13:09 Hours
HE the Ambassador of Japan to Sri Lanka Mr Hideaki Mizukoshi on the eve of the celebration of the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Sri Lanka and Japan on Wednesday (26) paid a courtesy call on General Shavendra Silva, Chief of Defence Staff, Commander of the Army and Head of the Green Agriculture Operations Center at the Army Headquarters in Sri Jayawardenepura.
During cordial interactions that ensued at the Commander’s office, both agreed that two countries are united by mutual understanding and shared values over the past seventy years and spoke highly of significance and common aspirations of the two peoples.
The Ambassador expressed his happiness over the dedicated contribution of the Armed Forces in Sri Lanka in the control of COVID 19 pandemic and various other national development roles, being supported by the Army, inclusive of the most recent coordination roles for organic fertilizer production. He also told General Shavendra Silva that Japan will continue to remain engaged in discussions with Sri Lankan authorities with a view to further promoting bilateral assistance in a manner truly reflective of Japan’s historic values and close ties that prevail between both Nations.
General Shavendra Silva gratefully recalled Japan’s medical support to the Armed Forces by way of gifting ambulances, medical stocks and other relief packs during difficult times and also the continuing technical support Japan has always extended as a true friend of the country.
At the end of the cordial meeting, both of them shared mementos as tokens of goodwill. Mr. Katsuki Kotaro, Minister/Deputy Head of Mission and Captain Fukaura Gaku, Defence/Security Advisor were also associated with the meeting at the Commander’s office.
Upon the Ambassador’s arrival at the Army HQ premises, Major General Ajith Kolambathantri, Military Secretary welcomed him and his retinue before they were ushered to the Commander’s office.
