The High Commission of India, Colombo, commemorated 50 years of association between the National Defence College (NDC), India and Sri Lankan Security Forces on August 28. The event celebrated the enduring bonds of cooperation and camaraderie among the militaries of the two countries.
 High Commissioner Baglay addressing the gathering
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Secretary of Defence Gen. Kamal Gunaratne(Retd) was the chief guest. Chief of Defence Staff Lt. Gen Shavendra Silva, Commanders of Sri Lanka Army, Navy and Air Force along with officers from NDC, India and dignitaries from Ministry of Defence attended the ceremony.
Gen. Kamal Gunaratne(Retd) along with High Commissioner of India Gopal Baglay felicitated the Guest of Honour, Admiral DB Goonesekara(Retd). Admiral Goonesekara has the distinction of being the first NDC India alumni in Sri Lanka. Accepting the felicitations, he shared his experiences from the times he spent at NDC, India in 1972, over 50 years ago.
High Commissioner Gopal Baglay said that India stands committed to Sri Lanka’s capacity building endeavours in line with India’s ‘Neighbourhood First Policy’. He said that training engagements between the Security Forces have instilled a spirit of brotherhood and interoperability among the services and form the foundation of their strong bonds.
The Secretary Defence commended the efforts of the High Commissioner to bridge the bonds between the two nations across various dimensions.
He said that India has always been a pillar of strength in training of Sri Lankan Security forces personnel and shares strong cultural, demographical and behavioural similarities as a friendly neighbour. He expressed his gratitude for the fully funded and comprehensive training opportunities being provided to Sri Lanka’s Security Forces.