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Navy Commander visits Naval Bases in Mannar. Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe visited the Naval Bases in Mannar on 30 December 2009. He inspected the Thalaimannar Pier and made an observation of the security arrangements maintained by the Navy on the Mannar-Murukkan Road. He also met with fishing communities at two locations in Thalaimannar and Thaualpadu fishing villages and inquired into matters related to their fishing activities and welfare. More Pictures |
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Indian High Commissioner calls on Commander of the Navy. High Commissioner of India to Sri Lanka His Excellency Ashok K. Kantha called on the Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe at the Naval Headquarters on 29 December 2009. He was accompanied by Indian Defence Attache Captain Pradeep Sing. More Pictures |
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Defence Services Command and Staff College Course No 3 Graduation Ceremony The graduation ceremony of the Course No 3 of the Defence Services Command and Staff College (DSCSC) was held on 29 December 2009 at the Main Auditorium of the Defence Services Command and Staff College in Sapugaskanda. Prime Minister Honourable Rathnasiri Wickremanayake graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe also attended the ceremony. |
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Commander of the Navy visits Southern Naval Command Commander of the Navy visited the Southern Naval Command on 24th December 2009 on an inspection tour. He was accompanied by Commander Southern Naval Area Commodore PADR Perera and several senior officers. During his tour the Commander visited SLNS Nipuna, Boossa and SLNS Dakshina, Galle. He looked in the administrative, training, security and welfare measure in place and also addressed both officers and sailors there. The Commander also visited the Fisheries Harbour at Kudawella. The picture shows Commander of the Navy addressing Naval personnel at a meeting held at the auditorium of SLNS Nipuna, Boossa. More Pictures |
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Commander of the Navy declares open Seva Vanitha “AVURUDHU POLA” Commander of the Navy Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe declared open the ‘Avurudhu Pola’ organized annually by Navy Seva Vanitha Unit, today (23rd December 2009) at SLNS Gemunu, Welisara. President Navy Seva Vanitha Unit Mrs.Malathie Samarasinghe and a large number Naval personnel and their families were present at the event. The picture shows Commander of the Navy lighting the Oil Lamp at the opening ceremony. More Pictures |
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Commander of the Navy visits Northwestern Naval Command Commander of the Navy Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe made an inspection tour to the Northwestern Naval Command on 22nd December 2009. He was accorded a Guard of Honour and was received by Commander Northwestern Naval Area upon his arrival. He inspected work in progress at the Puttalam construction site. He also looked into the administrative, security and welfare measures and had discussions with officers concerned. He then visited Norachcholai and Udappu areas and met with representatives of the fishing community there. The picture shows Commander of the Navy inspecting work at the construction site. More Pictures |
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Commander of the Navy present at the Colombo harbor to witness the arrival of the acquired LTTE ship ‘Princess Chrisanta’ Commander of the Navy Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe was present at the Colombo harbor today (21st December 2009) to witness the arrival of the acquired LTTE ship ‘Princess Chrisanta.’ Under the guidance of Commander of the Navy Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe, Sri Lanka Naval personnel led by Captain DKP Dassanayaka manned the vessel successfully sailing it for thousands of miles through international waters before entering Colombo harbor today morning. Commander of the Navy congratulated the crew and praised their brave effort in bringing down the vessel safe and secure. Speaking to the large number of media personnel who had gathered at the Colombo harbor to cover the event, Commander of the Navy said the acquiring of this vessel by Sri Lanka was a significant achievement and it will be utilized towards both Naval and non Naval duties towards the development of the country in the future. The picture shows Commander of the Navy congratulating Captain DKP Dassanayaka who led the crew which brought in the vessel. More Pictures |
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Navy Commander visits Western Fleet Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe made a sudden visit to the Western Fleet at the Port of Colombo today (17th December 2009). He addressed all officers of the Fleet and proceeded thereafter to sea on board a Fast Attack Craft accompanied by Director General Operations and Commander Western Naval Area. During the visit, he went into the details of operational readiness and professional knowledge of officers and sailors including checks and balances of fuel and lubricants. He also visited the Auxiliary Ship A 522 which is being prepared to transport military cargo to the North. More Pictures |
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Indonesian Deputy Foreign Minister calls on Commander of the Navy Deputy Foreign Minister for Information and Public Diplomacy of the Republic of Indonesia, Mr Andri Hadi and a delegation called on the Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe at the Naval Headquarters on the 16th December 2009. They were accompanied by Indonesian Ambassador to Sri Lanka His Excellency Djafar Husein. Mr Hadi and Commander of the Navy held discussions on matters of bilateral relevance and mutual interests. Afterwards, mementos were exchanged between the Indonesian Deputy Foreign Minister and Commander of the Navy to mark the occasion. |
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Ambassador of the Peoples Republic of China Calls on the Commander of the Navy Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Peoples Republic of China to the Democratic Republic of Sri Lanka and to the Republic of Maldives Her Excellency Yang Xiuping called on the Commander of the Navy Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe at the Naval Headquarters today (15th December 2009). Her Excellency Yang Xiuping and Commander of the Navy had discussions on matters of bilateral relevance and mutual interests. Mementos were also exchanged between the Ambassador and Commander of the Navy to mark the occasion. More Pictures |
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All-night Pirith Chanting and Mid-Day Arms Giving Ceremony held at SLNS Gemunu in view of Navy Day Commander of the Navy Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe attended the all-night pirith chanting ceremony and the mid-day alms giving ceremony held at SLNS Gemunu on the 12th and 13th December 2009 in view of the Navy Day. Senior Naval officers, a large number of Naval personnel and their family members too attended the event. Religious blessings were invoked on the heroic Naval personnel who were killed, wounded and missing in action while safeguarding the territorial integrity and sovereignty of the country. The family members of the KIA and MIA Naval personnel were also invited to participate in the religious ceremonies to invoke blessings on their loved ones. The clergy offered religious counsel to all Naval personnel wishing them strength and long life to continue their noble service. They also extended their sincere wishes to the Navy which steps into its 60th year of serving the motherland. More Pictures |
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Commander of the Navy attends Passing out at NMA Commander of the Navy was present at the passing out of eight Midshipmen belonging to 46th and twenty one Midshipmen belonging 47th Cadet Intakes in a colourful commissioning and passing out parade held at the Main Parade Ground of the Naval and Maritime Academy in Trincomalee, on 11th December 2009. Prime Minister Hon. Ratnasiri Wickramanayake graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. A large number of officers, sailors and family members of the officers passing out had gathered at the venue to witness the special event. The Commander of the Navy in his message had paid tribute to all those who guided the destiny of the Naval and Maritime Academy over the past three decades. He has said it is a rare honour to complete training at this prestigious institution. He has reminded the passing out officers to be mindful of their responsibility to uphold and maintain impeccable discipline, greatest standard of honour, moral values, gentleman qualities and uncompromising integrity. He also has extended his gratitude to the parents and loved ones of the officers passing out for giving them the encouragement to serve the motherland in order to protect her and rebuild the economy and develop her at this critical period of time. He also had commended the Commandant and the Directing Staff of the Naval and Maritime Academy for a job well done. The picture shows Commander of the Navy presenting a memento to the Chief Guest Hon. Prime Minister Ratnasiri Wickramanayaka. More Pictures |
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Navy Commander ceremonially launches VVIP Passenger Craft built by Navy Commander of the Navy Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe ceremonially launched the VVIP Passenger craft built by the Navy at a ceremony held in the Colombo Harbour on the 10th December 2009. The launch coincides the 59th Anniversary celebrations which mark the Navy’s stepping into its 60th year of serving the Motherland. The historical occasion was attended by Directors General of the Navy and Commander Western Naval area. The luxuriously furbished vessel named “Admiralty Craft” is custom-built for VVIP excursions at the Inshore Patrol Craft Construction Site at SLNS Mahasen in Welisara. It is entirely designed and built by the Navy under the direction of Commander of the Navy with Director General Engineering Rear Admiral MAJ de Costa providing close supervision for its successful completion in a record time of six (06) months. More Pictures |
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Commander of the Navy attends unveiling of ‘Victory Monument’ at Puthukkudiruppu Commander of the Navy attended the unveiling of ‘Victory Monument’ built in honour of war heroes at Puthukkudiyiruppu on 09th December 2009. His Excellency the President Mahinda Rajapaksa unveiled the monument. Secretary Defence Mr. Gotabaya Rajapaksa and many senior security force officers including the Chief of Defence Staff and Air Force Commander Air Chief Marshal Roshan Goonethilake, Army Commander Lieutenant General Jagath Jayasuriya and Inspector General of Police Mahinda Balasuriya were present at this occasion. The president also spoke with the security personnel gathered there. The picture shows His Excellency the President with the Secretary Defence, service chiefs and other security officers in front of the Victory Monument. More Pictures |
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Commander of the Navy attends Navy Day Inaugural Religious Ceremonies in Kandy Commander of the Navy Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe attended the Navy Day inaugural religious ceremonies held at the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy on the evening of 08th December 2009. Arriving in the sacred city of Kandy, Commander of the Navy called on the Mahanayakas of the Asgiriya and Malwatte Chapters. Thereafter, he proceeded to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic to attend the inaugural religious ceremonies. The ceremonies held in keeping with the time-honoured religious traditions commenced with a “Pahan Pooja” followed by a “Gilanpasa Pooja invoking the blessings of the Triple Gem on the Navy which sets off on its voyage towards its 60th year of serving the Motherland. More Pictures |
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Inspector General of Police calls on Commander of the Navy Inspector General of Police Mahinda Balasuriya called on the Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe at the Naval Headquarters today (26th November 2009). Upon arrival, the IGP was accorded with a Guard of Honour. He was warmly welcomed by the Commander of the Navy and was introduced to the Principal Staff Officers at the Naval Headquarters. Thereafter, the Navy Commander and the IGP held brief but cordial discussions on issues related to maintenance of law and order to ensure peace and stability in the country. Mementos were also exchanged to mark the occasion. More Pictures |
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5th Defence Services Games come to a successful Conclusion: Navy with impressive performances secures the Secretary Defence Challenge Trophy The highly successful 5th Defence Services Games concluded on the 23 November 2009 at the Sugathadasa Indoor Stadium. Sri Lanka Navy with an impressive performance secured the Secretary Defence Challenge Trophy. Secretary to His Excellency the President Mr. Lalith Weerathunga graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. Secretary of Defence Mr. Gotabhaya Rajapaksa, Service Commanders of the three Armed Forces and a large number of distinguished guests were also present at the occasion. Sri Lanka Navy under the guidance of President of the Defence Services Sports Board (DSSB) and Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe organized this year’s event. More Pictures |
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Commander of the Navy attends Ocean Babies Pre-School Annual Concert Commander of the Navy attended the Annual Concert of the Ocean Babies Pre-School at SLNS Tissa, Trincomalee on 21st November 2009. The concert was held at the auditorium of the Naval Maritime Academy. First Lady Shiranthi Rajapaksa graced the occasion as the chief guest. Mrs.Malathi Samarasinghe, President of Navy Seva Vanitha Unit and a large number of its members and Naval officers were also present at this occasion. First Lady and Commander of the Navy distributed presents among the young performers and praised them for presenting a colourful concert. The picture shows Commander of the Navy being welcomed by the children of Ocean Babies Pre-School. More Pictures |
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Commander of the Navy attends 5th Defence Services Games Opening Ceremony The opening ceremony of the 5th Defence Services Games was held at the Sugathadasa Outdoor Stadium on the 19th November 2009. Secretary to the Ministry of Finance and Planning and the Treasury Dr. P.B. Jayasundara graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. Commanders of the three Armed Services, members of Defence Services and a large gathering of spectators were also present to witness the spectacular event. The 5th Defence Service Games are organized by the Defence Services Sports Board headed by its President Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe with Commander of the Sri Lanka Army Lieutenant General Jagath Jayasuriya and Commander of the Sri Lanka Air Force Air Chief Marshal Roshan Goonetileke extending their patronage as its Vice Presidents. Sri Lanka Navy being the Host Defence Service has made elaborate arrangements to make this year’s Defence Services sports extravaganza a truly memorable event. More Pictures |
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Commander of the Navy visits Ipologama Ranajayapura Housing Scheme Commander of the Navy Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe went on an inspection tour to inspect work in progress at the Ranajayapura Housing Scheme in Ipologama yesterday (17th November 2009). The housing scheme which is being constructed for the members of the tri forces is nearing its completion. Sri Lanka Navy has undertaken the construction of the whole project. Already more than a thousand houses have been built and are ready for occupation. Commander of the Navy was accompanied by several Director Generals of and senior officers of the Navy Headquarters. Commander Northcentral Naval area and Naval Officer in Charge of Ipologama and Poonewa were also present. Commander of the Navy observed the work in progress and gave instructions for improvements. He stressed the need for the Navy to maintain high standards. He also looked into the welfare of the personnel stationed there and praised their sincere effort and loyal dedication shown towards the completion of this monumental project. As the project is at its final stages of completion preparations are underway for a grand ceremonial opening The picture shows Commander of the Navy inspecting work at the housing complex. More Pictures |
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Commander of the Navy Chief Guest at Ocean Babies Annual Concert The annual Year-End concert of the Ocean Babies Montessori, Welisara was held on 16th November 2009 at 1700hrs in the new Band Hall of SLNS Gemunu. Commander of the Navy Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. President, Navy Seva Vanitha Unit Mrs.Malathie Samarasinghe was the Guest of Honour. Commander of the Navy, in his speech praised the little children for their excellent performance and also distributed gifts among them. The picture shows Commander of the Navy being welcomed by the children on his arrival at the venue. More Pictures |
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Pakistan Chief of Air Staff calls on Commander of the Navy The Chief of the Air Staff of Pakistan Air Force (CAS, PAF), Air Chief Marshal Rao Qamar Suleman accompanied by Pakistan Deffence Attache Colonel Syed Khurram Hassnain Alam called on the Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe at the Naval Headquarters in Colombo on the 14th November 2009. The Pakistan Chief of Air Staff was warmly received by the Commander of the Navy and was introduced to the Principal Staff Officers at the Naval Headquarters. Thereafter, they had discussions on matters of bilateral relevance and mutual interests. Mementos were exchanged between the Commander of the Navy and the visiting Pakistan Chief of Air Staff to mark the occasion. Air Commodore Azsar Hassan Rizvi, PSO to CAS, PAF and Flight Lieutenant Shehzed Ali, ADC to CAS, PAF were also in the delegation. More Pictures |
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Commander of the Navy awards Commendation Badges Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe awarded commendation badges to several Naval personnel on the 13th November 2009 at a token investiture ceremony held at the Naval Headquarters. One hundred and forty-six (146) Naval personnel receive commendation badges for the first half of Year 2009. More Pictures |
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Commander of the Navy at Defence Services Football Championship Match Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe, who holds this year’s Chairmanship of Defence Services Sports Board, in a surprise visit arrived at the grounds to witness the Defence Services Football Championship Final Match played at the Police Ground on the 12th November 2009. His presence prompted players of both teams to give their best for a keen competition to gain the championship title. Securing a major victory over a premier side, Navy clinched the Defence Services Football Championship. They stunned the formidable Air Force team, currently selected for the semi finals in the ongoing premier league football tournament, by beating them 5 – 4 in a keenly fought penalty shoot-out at the Finals. At the conclusion of the game, Commander of the Navy congratulated the members of the both teams for the excellent display of their sporting skills and a match played in the true spirit of the game promoting camaraderie between the two sister forces. More Pictures |
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Myanmar President on State Visit The President of Myanmar Senior General Than Shwe arrived in Sri Lanka on the 12th November 2009. On arrival, he was accorded a state welcome and warmly received by His Excellency the President Mahinda Rajapaksa. Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe was among the VIPs who were present at the Bandaranaike International Airport to receive the visiting Myanmar President. More Pictures |
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Commander of the Navy attends Bilateral Discussion between Australian and Sri Lankan Foreign Ministers Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe attended the bilateral discussion held between the visiting Australian Foreign Minister Hon. Stephen Smith and his Sri Lankan counterpart Hon. Rohitha Bogollagama at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on the 09th November 2009. Subsequently, Special Representative of the Australian Prime Minister, John McCarthy and Ambassador for People’s Smuggling Issues, Mr. Peter Woolcott accompanied by Australian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka Her Excellency Kathy Klugman called on the Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy at the Naval Headquarters in Colombo on the 10th November 2009. They discussed matters related to maritime terrorism and human smuggling. The visiting Australian delegation headed by Foreign Minister Hon. Stephen Smith was hosted to dinner by Commander of the Navy at the Commander’s official residence, Clipenberg House. Sri Lanka’s star cricketing personality Sanath Jayasooriya was also present at the occasion promoting naval and cricket diplomacy. More Pictures |
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Vietnam delegation calls on Commander of the Navy. A delegation representing the Ministry of Defence, Vietnam called on the Commander of the Navy Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe today (09th November 2009). Leader of the delegation Colonel Pham van Hoanh, Deputy Chief of Staff -Navy Force accompanied by Colonel Trieu Duc Hoa and Mr. Phan Tien Tho met with Commander of the Navy at the Naval Headquarters in Colombo this morning. Commander of the Navy held discussions with the Vietnam delegation on matters of mutual interests. The photo shows commander of the Navy exchanging mementos with Colonel Pham van Hoanh to mark the occasion. More Pictures |
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Commander of the Navy addresses Indo – Sri Lanka Bilateral Seminar on Countering Maritime Threats Posed by Non-State Actors Commander of the Navy Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe delivered the inaugural address at the “Indo – Sri Lanka Bilateral Seminar on Countering Maritime Threats Posed by Non-State Actors”, organized by the Ministry of Defence Strategic Affairs Division in collaboration with the National Maritime Foundation of India at the Taj Samudra Hotel, Colombo today (04th November 2009). Commander of the Navy emphasized that to counter non state actors from destabilizing the maritime global commons, it is our duty, it is our partnership, and it is our watch to ensure the security of the Maritime Domain for our future. The protection of the maritime global commons for the benefit of mankind by keeping the arteries of trade open and safe, the Navy Commander said, is the key to the survival of certain nation states, and the disruption of which will be chaotic to other nations as well. The National Maritime Foundation of India is headed by former Indian Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Arun Prakash (Retd).The two day seminar is being attended by top level defence officials from both countries. Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs Mr. Romesh Jayasinghe, Advisors to His Excellency the President Major General M.D. Perera (Retd) and Mr Nihal Rodrigo, High Commissioner designate to India and Acting High Commissioner for India Mr. Prasad Kariyawasam and Strategic Affairs Adviser Ministry of Defence, Public Security, Law and Order Mr. B.S. Colonne also graced the opening session. The picture shows Commander of the Navy delivering the inaugural address. More Pictures |
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Commander of the Navy congratulates CEAT award winning cricketers Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe congratulated the members of the Navy Cricket Team who had won awards at the 2009 CEAT Cricket Awards Ceremony when they called on him at the Naval Headquarters on the 03rd of November 2009. Sri Lanka Navy became the Sara Trophy Champions 2009 in both League and One Day tournaments. Navy cricketers took away seven awards at the CEAT Cricket Award Ceremony 2009 held at Waters Edge on 30th October 2009. The picture shows Commander of the Navy with the CEAT award winning cricketers and officials. More Pictures |
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Commander of the Navy visits Northern Naval Area Commander of the Navy Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe visited the Northern Naval Area on the 29th of October 2009. He inspected the Naval bases and deployments under the Northern Naval Command and addressed both officers and sailors. He also inspected the progress of the slipway under construction at SLNS Uttara in Kankasanthurai. During the visit, Commander of the Navy met with local fishing communities, fishing society leaders and Government officials at the Fishing Marshalling Point at Velanai Island. He looked into the welfare of the civilians now resettled in their original places of residence in northern islands under the Naval purview. The Commander of the Navy proceeded to sea on board P 473 to inspect SLN deployment in the strategically important waters of Palk Strait accompanied by Commander of the Northern Naval Area Rear Admiral JSK Colombage and the senior directing staff of the NHQ. More Pictures |
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Israel Defence Attache calls on Commander of the Navy Defence Attache of Israel Colonel Yossi Resaelov called on the Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe at the Naval Headquarters in Colombo on the 26th of October 2009. Colonel Resaelo, who functions attached to the Embassy of Israel located in New Delhi, was accompanied by Acting Israeli Defence Attache Lieutenant Colonel Matan Sagi. The Commander of the Navy and the Israeli Defence Attache held discussions on mutual interests and they exchanged mementos to mark the occasion. More Pictures |
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Commander of the Navy commends Navy Weightlifters who excelled at Commonwealth Weightlifting Championship Commander of the Navy Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe commended the Navy weightlifters who excelled at the Commonwealth Weightlifting Championship - 2009 held in Malaysia from the 18th to 23rd of October. He congratulated them for bringing glory to the Sri Lanka Navy when they called on the Commander of the Navy at the Naval Headquarters on the 26th of October 2009. Navy weightlifters won two silver medals and one bronze medal representing Sri Lanka at the Commonwealth Weightlifting Championship - 2009. More Pictures |
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Commander of the Navy Pays a Courtesy Call on Archbishop of Colombo Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe paid a courtesy call on the Archbishop of Colombo, the Most Rev.Dr. Malcolm Ranjith on the 23rd of October 2009 at the Archbishop House in Colombo. His Grace conveyed the prayerful greetings of the Catholic Church to the Commander of the Navy on his appointment and assured all possible assistance in developing spiritual awareness in the Sri Lanka Navy. They also discused at length common issues of the world in general and of Sri Lanka in particular. The discussions were held in a very cordial atmosphere. The Commander of the Navy presented His Grace the Archbishop of Colombo a replica of a sextant as a memento to mark the occasion. More Pictures |
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Defence Attache of Russia to Sri Lanka calls on the Commander of the Navy The Defence Attache of Russia to Sri Lanka Colonel V Chernenko called on the Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe yesterday (22nd October 2009) at the Naval Headquarters. Commander of the Navy and the Russian Defence attache had discussions relating to bilateral interests and later exchanged mementos to mark the occasion. More Pictures |
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His Excellency the President and First Lady attend the inaugural match of the President Rajapaksa Challenge Trophy Rugby Football Match His Excellency President Mahinda Rajapaksa together with First Lady Madam Shiranthi Rajapaksa attended the inaugural match of the prestigious President Rajapaksa Challenge Trophy Rugby Football match at the Welisara Navy Rugby ground yesterday (20th October 2009). Hon. Minister of Sports Gamini Lokuge, Chief of Defence Staff General Sarath Fonseka, Commander of the Navy and President of the Defence Services Sports Board Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe, Commander of the Air Force Air Chief Marshal Roshan Goonetileke, Commander of the Army Lieutenant General Jagath Jayasuriya, , Chairman of the Sri Lanka Rugby Football Union Interim Committee Dr. Maiya Gunasekara and Chief Executive Officer of the Sri Lanka Rugby Football Union Mr. Lasitha Gunarathna were among the distinguished guests. Many other high ranking Army, Navy and Air Force officers were also present to witness the historic sporting event which is going to be an important annual fixture in the local sports scene. The Defence Services team led by Yoshitha Rajapaksa won by 15-06 in a closely contested match. His Excellency the President awarded the trophy to the winning Defence Services team. The Commander of the Navy Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe in his capacity as the President of the Defence Services Sports Board, thanked His Excellency the President and First Lady for their consent and donation of the coveted trophy and also be the Chief guests. He strongly emphasized the tremendous encouragement given by His Excellency the President for sports in general and Defence Services Sports in particular. He also said despite operational commitments in the past Defence Services have lived up to expectations at national and international levels over the years bringing honour and glory to the country. He also thanked the Rupavahini Corporation for the live telecast of this important event and also to all others who contributed in making the event a glamorous and memorable one. More Pictures |
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Navy Commander addresses SAARC Cadets visiting Naval Headquarters A contingent of SAARC cadets from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, and the Maldives headed by Brigadier General SI Hossain of Bangladesh visited the Naval Headquarters in Colombo on the 17th of October 2009. Warmly welcoming the visiting SAARC cadet contingent, the Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe in his speech, emphasized the importance of discipline, integrity, loyalty, honour and professional excellence for them to take up future responsibilities in their careers. He revealed that the single most reason for him to join the Navy was the inspiration he received while being a school cadet himself. He recalled his association with school cadet movement having risen to its highest position as a Regimental Sergeant Major (RSM) of the 03rd Battalion of the National Cadet Corps in 1973 during his school days. While thanking them for selecting the Naval Headquarters for their visit during their 10-day stay in Sri Lanka, the Navy Commander called upon them never to aspire for positions but acquire requisite qualifications so that they will be automatically rewarded for their endeavors. More Pictures |
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Commander of the Navy visits INS Savitri Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe visited Indian Naval Ship 'Savitri' at the Port of Colombo on the 03rd of October 2009. He was ceremonially welcomed aboard by the Commanding Officer Commander Gagan Kaushal and was presented with a token Guard of Honour. The ship arrived on the 02nd of October for refueling while accompanying the Maldivian Coast Guard Ship 'Hurawee', which is on her way to India for refitting. The Navy Commander exchanged mementos with the Commanding Officer and signed the Visitor’s book. The Navy Commander also met the High Commissioner of India to Sri Lanka His Excellency Shri Alok Prasad on board the ship and presented him with a memento. He later boarded CGS 'Hurawee' and presented a memento to its Commanding Officer Captain Mohamed Saleem after exchanging pleasantries with the crew. More Pictures |
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Commander of the Navy Chief Guest at Inter Command Sailing Championship-2009 Commander of the Navy Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe was the Chief Guest at the Inter Command Sailing Championship-2009 held at Trincomalee harbor on 28th September 2009. The picture shows the Commander of the Navy personally judging the Sailing competition. More Pictures |
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Commander of the Navy’s visit to the East Commander of the Navy Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe visited Naval Deployments Pulmuddai and Thaulwewa on 27th September 2009. He looked into the progress of the renovation work being carried out by the Navy at the Old Dutch Commissioner’s bungalow. The Commander of the Navy addressed the Officer under Trainees at the Naval and Maritime Academy Auditorium and later together with Mrs. Malathie Samarasinghe, hosted them for tea at the Navy House. More Pictures |
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Commander of the Navy Chief Guest at VNF Annual Camp Ceremonial Parade Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe attended the Volunteer Naval Force Annual Camp Ceremonial Parade held at SLNS Thaksila on the 26th of September 2009 as its Chief Guest at the invitation of the Commanding Officer of the Volunteer Naval Force (VNF) Captain A Herathbanda. After inspecting the divisions, Commander of the Navy addressed the VNF personnel who attended the annual camp from the 14th to 26th of September 2009. More Pictures |
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Indian National Defence College Delegation calls on the Commander of the Navy A delegation from the Indian National Defence College headed by its Senior Directing Staff Air Vice Marshall SSK Karmakar called on the Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe at the Naval Headquarters in Colombo today, 24th September 2009. Commander of the Navy joined the visiting delegation for an interactive session and also hosted the visitors and their spouses for lunch at the Western Area Command Wardroom at SLNS Rangalla. The picture shows the Commander of the Navy, who himself belongs to the 45th Indian National Defence Course presenting the head of the visiting delegation Air Vice Marshall SSK Karmakar with a memento to mark the occasion. More Pictures |
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Commander of the Navy calls on Atamasthanadhipathi Ven Dr. Pallegama Sirinivasa Thera Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe called on Atamasthanadhipathi Ven. Dr. Pallegama Sirinivasa Thera and Chief Incumbent of Ruwanweliseya Temple Ven. Pallegama Hemarathana Thera on the 21st of September 2009. He also paid obeisance to the Sacred Sri Maha Bodhi and Ruwanweliseya in the sacred city of Anuradhapura. At the precincts of the Samadhi Statue, the Navy Commander met a group of children from the Rohana Deaf and Blind School in Matara and had a friendly conversation with them after posing for a photograph with them at their request. They were elated to meet in person the personality at the helm of the country’s Navy, which is aptly known as “Rataweta Bendi Ranweta” (the Golden Fence around the Nation). More Pictures |
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Commander of the Navy visits SLNS Pandukabhaya and Ippologama Ranaviru Housing Scheme Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe made a sudden visit to SLNS Pandukabhaya in Medawachchiya on the 20th of September 2009 in order to inspect the security arrangements and base facilities. On the following day, the Navy Commander visited the Officers’ Holiday Bungalows at Anuradhapura and Sailors’ Holiday Bungalows in Mihintale and inquired into the facilities available for Naval personnel and their family members. He then proceeded to the Ranaviru Housing Scheme at Ippologama and inspected the progress of the project which is now nearing completion under the expertise of the Navy’s civil engineering personnel. More Pictures |
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Commander of the Navy Chief Guest at Passing Out Parade held at SLNS Shiksha in Poonewa An historic number of one thousand seventy-two (1072) Naval recruits, belonging to the 174th, 175th and 176th Regular Intakes and 2009/02 and 2009/03 Volunteer Intakes, passed out upon successful completion of their initial Naval training at the Passing Out Parade held at SLNS Shiksha in Poonewa on the 20th of September 2009. Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. More Pictures |
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Commander of the Navy attends welfare ceremony at SLNS Parakrama Commander of the Navy Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe was present at the handing over of donation of Rs. 500,000 to the Navy Seva Vanitha Unit on 15th September 2009. The fund was collected by the ship’s company of SLNS Parakrama by staging ‘Kelani Palama’ stage drama. The picture shows the cheque being handed over to the Navy Seva Vanitha President Mrs. Malathie Samarasinghe in the presence of Commander of the Navy. |
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His Excellency the President and First Lady grace Pirith Ceremony at ‘Klippenberg House’ His Excellency the President Mahinda Rajapaksa and First Lady Shiranthi Rajapaksa graced the overnight Pirith Chanting Ceremony held on the 11th September 2009 at the Commander of the Navy’s temporary residence ‘Klippenberg House’. The picture shows His Excellency the President and First Lady with the Commander of the Navy and his Lady during the religious observances. More Pictures |
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Commander of the Navy attends Reception and Dinner held on board Pakistan Navy Ship ‘Zulfiquar’ Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe was hosted to a reception and dinner held on board PNS 'Zulfiquar' by the ship’s Commanding Officer Captain Zahid Ilyas on the 06th of September 2009. A number of dignitaries, diplomats, senior Armed Forces officers and members of the Pakistani community was also in attendance. PNS 'Zulfiquar', a warship belonging to the Pakistan Navy, arrived on a goodwill visit to Sri Lanka on the 05th of September 2009. More Pictures |
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Commanding Officer of Pakistan Navy Ship ‘Zulfiquar’ calls on Commander of the Navy Commanding Officer of PNS 'Zulfiquar' Captain Zahid Ilyas paid a courtesy call on the Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe on the 05th of September 2009 at the Naval Headquarters. PNS 'Zulfiquar', a warship belonging to the Pakistan Navy, arrived on a goodwill visit to Sri Lanka. More Pictures |
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Defence Attache of India to Sri Lanka calls on the Commander of the Navy The Defence Attache of India to Sri Lanka Captain Pradeep Singh (India Navy) called on the Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe at the Naval Headquarters in Colombo on the 31st August 2009. Commander of the Navy and the India Defence Attache discussed matters of bilateral interests. Mementos were exchanged between the Navy Commander and the Defence Attache. More Pictures |
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Defence Attache of Canada to Sri Lanka calls on the Commander of the Navy The Defence Attache of Canada to Sri Lanka Colonel Richard Ryder Barbidge called on the Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe on 31st August 2009 at the Naval Headquarters. Commander of the Navy and the Canada Defence attache had discussions relating to bilateral interests and later exchanged mementos to mark the occasion. More Pictures |
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Commander of the Navy Chief Guest at Commissioning and Passing out Parade at Naval and Maritime Academy Commander of the Navy Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe graced the occasion as the Chief Guest and took the salute at the Commissioning and Passing Out parade of the 23rd KDU (Tech) Intake Midshipmen, Direct Entry (RNF) Intake 01/2008 Officers, Direct Entry (RNF) Intake 04/2008 Officers, Direct Entry Intake (RNF/VNF) 05/06/2008 Officers and Direct Entry (Electrical) Intake 02/2009 held at the Main Parade Ground of the Naval and Maritime Academy in Trincomalee on 29th August 2009. More Pictures |
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Secretary of Defence inspects Trincomalee Naval Complex accompanied by Commander of the Navy Secretary of Defence, Public Security, Law and Order Mr. Gotabhaya Rajapaksa went on an inspection tour of the Trincomalee Naval Complex accompanied by the Commander of the Navy Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe on the 28th August 2009. The Defence Secretary inspected the MTU Workshop, Spare Parts Distribution Centre, R&D Project Office, No 3 Slip Way and FAC Spare Parts Stores. He presented gift parcels to the Naval personnel wounded in action during the final battle after visiting the Naval Hospital in Trincomalee. More Pictures |
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Commander of the Navy attends Commissioning Ceremony of SLNS Sayurala Commander of the Navy Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe attended the Commissioning Ceremony of SLNS ‘Sayurala’ held at Naval Dockyard, Trincomalee on 28th August 2009. The Chief Guest was Secretary of Ministry of Defence, Public Security, Law & Order Mr.Gotabhaya Rajapaksa. More Pictures |
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Secretary of Defence tours Naval Dockyard in Trincomalee accompanied by Commander of the Navy Secretary of Defence, Public Security, Law and Order Mr. Gotabhaya Rajapaksa toured the Naval Dockyard in Trincomalee accompanied by the Commander of the Navy Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe on the 27th August 2009. More Pictures |
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Ambassador of Japan in Sri Lanka calls on the Commander of the Navy His Excellency Kunio Takahashi called on the Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe on 27th August 2009 at the Naval Headquarters. Sri Lanka maintains cordial ties with Japan, an important trade and cultural partner. Japan a major doner country had helped Sri Lanka in numerous ways and still continues to do so. The Navy Commander and Ambassador Kunio Takahashi had discussions relating to bilateral interests and also exchanged mementos to mark the occasion. More Pictures |
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Defence Attache of Israel to Sri Lanka calls on the Commander of the Navy The Defence Attache of Israel to Sri Lanka Colonel Shlomo Alon called on the Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe at the Naval Headquarters in Colombo on the 24th August 2009. Commander of the Navy and the Israel Defence Attache discussed matters of bilateral interests. Mementos were exchanged between the Navy Commander and the Defence Attache. More Pictures |
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Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Sri Lanka calls on the Commander of the Navy His Excellency Choi Ki Chul, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Sri Lanka called on the Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe at the Naval Headquarters on 24th August 2009. Sri Lanka maintains cordial relationship with Republic of Korea, an important trade and cultural partner. Commander of the Navy and Ambassador Choi Ki Chul discussed matters of bilateral interests and also exchanged mementos to mark the occasion. More Pictures |
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Twenty heroic Naval families received houses built with the financial assistance of Dr. E.M.S. Edirisinghe, Managing Director of Oasis Hospital (Pvt) Ltd and President of Institute of Technological Studies. The houses were ceremonially handed over to the recipients by First Lady Madam Shiranthi Rajapakse on 21st August 2009. Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe, Navy Seva Vanitha Unit President Mrs. Malathie Samarasinghe, Mr and Mrs Edirisinghe and several high ranking Naval officers attended the houses handing over ceremony held at Walahanduwa Estate in the Galle district. More Pictures |
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The Defence Attache of the United States of America calls on the Commander of the Navy The Defence Attache of the United States of America to Sri Lanka Lieutenant Colonel (US Army) Lawrence A Smith III called on the Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe at the Naval Headquarters in Colombo on the 20th August 2009. Commander of the Navy and the United States Defence Attache discussed matters of bilateral interests. Mementos were exchanged between the Navy Commander and the Defence Attache. More Pictures |
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Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe made his first visit, since assuming office as the Commander of the Navy, to the North central Naval Command and the newly established Northwestern Commands on the 15th and 16th of August 2009. More Pictures |
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Defence Attache of Islamic Republic of Pakistan calls on the Commander of the Navy The Defence Attache of Islamic Republic of Pakistan to Sri Lanka Colonel Syed Khurram Hassnain Alam called on the Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe at the Naval Headquarters in Colombo on the 10th August 2009. Commander of the Navy and the Pakistan Defence Attache discussed matters of bilateral interests. Mementos were exchanged between the Navy Commander and the Defence Attache. More Pictures |
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Defence Attache of the Philippines calls on the Commander of the Navy The Defence Attache of Philippines to Sri Lanka Colonel Alex C Capina called on the Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe at the Naval Headquarters in Colombo on the 06th August 2009. Commander of the Navy and the Philippines Defence Attaché discussed matters of bilateral interests. Mementos were exchanged between the Navy Commander and the Defence Attache. More Pictures |
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Royal College, Colombo felicitated two of its great sons, Commander of the Sri Lanka Army Lt. General Jagath Jayasuriya and Commander of the Navy Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe at the Nawarangahala, on 04th August 2009. The picture shows the two Commanders being led in, in a procession into the school premises. More Pictures |
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The Commander of the Navy met the President’s Secretary Mr. Lalith Weerathunga on 03rd August 2009. More Pictures |
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Commander of the Navy Vice made his first official visit, upon assuming duties to the Eastern Naval Command, on the 01st of August 2009. The picture shows Commander Eastern Naval Area Rear Admiral SMB Weerasekara presenting a special memento to Commander of the Navy. More Pictures |
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A Naval Guard of honour was accorded to the visiting Prime Minister of Bahrain up on his arrival at the Bandaranayake International Air Port on 28th July 2009. More Pictures |
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Commander of the Sri Lanka Army Lieutenant General Jagath Jayasuriya called on Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe at the Naval Headquarters on 24th July 2009. |
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Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe paid homage to the Sacred Tooth Relic at the Sri Dalada Maligawa and called on Mahanayakes of Malwatte and Asgiriya Chapters in Kandy on 24th of July 2009, in order to receive their blessings on his new appointment. The picture shows the Commander of the Navy in the inner sanctum of the Dalada Maligawa. |
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Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe called on Commander of the Sri Lanka Army Lieutenant General Jagath Jayasuriya at the Army Headquarters on 23rd July 2009. The picture shows Commander of the Navy inspecting the Army Guard of Honour. |
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Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe called on Commander of the Sri Lanka Air Force Air Chief Marshal Roshan Goonetileke at the Air Force Headquarters on 23rd July 2009. |
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Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe paid a courtesy call on Prime Minister Hon Ratnasiri Wickramanayaka at Prime Minister’s Office on 23rd of July 2009. |
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Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe paid a courtesy call on President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces His Excellency Mahinda Rajapaksa at Temple Trees on the 22nd of July 2009. |
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The Chief of Defence Staff General Sarath Fonseka arrived at the Naval Headquarters on 21st July 2009 on an official visit. The picture shows the Chief of Defence Staff General Sarath Fonseka being received by the Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe on his arrival at the Naval Headquarters. |
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The Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe paid a courtesy call on the Chief of Defence Staff General Sarath Fonseka on 17th July 2009 at the Joint Operations Headquarters in Colombo. |
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The Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe paid a courtesy call on Secretary of Defence Mr. Gotabhaya Rajapaksa at the Ministry of Defence, Public Security and Law and Order the 16th of July 2009. |
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President of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces His Excellency Mahinda Rajapaksa has been pleased to appoint Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe as the Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy with effect from the 15th of July 2009. |
