24th July 2024 09:47:18 Hours
Marking the conclusion of the deployment in Mali, the second group of the Sri Lanka Guard Unit (SLGU)-MINUSMA arrived in Sri Lanka on 23 July 2024.
A total of 103 Army personnel, consisting of 13 Officers and 90 Other Ranks, arrived at Bandaranaike International Airport.
Upon arrival, the troops were warmly welcomed by Major General W.P.A.D.W. Nanayakkara RSP VSV USP ndu, Commandant Sri Lanka Volunteer Force and Colonel of the Regiment SLSR; Major General S.A.N.D. Edirisinghe RWP RSP Hdmc psc, Director General General Staff and Colonel Commandant SLCMP and a few representative Senior Officers of the Sri Lanka Army at the BIA.
Additionally, the first group of SLGU troops, including 7 Officers and 97 Other Ranks, arrived in Sri Lanka on 22 July 2024.
Since 2017, Sri Lankan peacekeepers in Mali have made a significant impact on the country's foreign exchange.
Finally, the UN flag was handed over by the Contingent Commander to the Colonel of the Regiment SLSR at Bandaranaike International Airport, marking the end of operations in Mali.
