Important that we understand the influence of foreign forces - President

Colombo (News 1st) - The 93rd passing out ceremony of officers and cadets of the Sri Lanka Military Academy in Diyatalwa was held today (Dec 15). The ceremony was held under the patronage of President Maithripala Sirisena. Commander of Sri Lanka Army Lieutenant General Mahesh Senanayake and several other senior officials were present at this occasion. Among the 234 that passed out were 41 female officers and 6 Maldivian nationals. The President addressing the event stated that foreign nations look at Sri Lanka from a different perspective now than the way they looked at us back in 1815 when the English invaded our country. He stated that security forces, politicians, academics, intellectuals and everyone else should understand these challenges and take the necessary steps to fulfil their duties to our motherland. He noted that despite the political preferences of oneself, everyone has a duty to serve their country. He also stated that it is of paramount importance that we understand the influence of foreign forces and act accordingly to protect Sri Lanka. The President also declared open the new auditorium at the Diyathalawa Military Academy, built with the support of the Chinese government. The assistance was part of a program to strengthen the friendship between the Sri Lanka Army and the Chinese People's Liberation Army. The relevant documents of the auditorium were handed over to the President by the Chinese Ambassador to Sri Lanka Cheng Xueyuan. The donation amounted to Rs 2.752 Billion.