Commander of the Navy visits Northern Naval Command

The Commander of the Navy, Vice Admiral Priyantha Perera embarked on a formal visit to the Northern Naval Command on 19th and 20th October 2024. During this visit, the Commander of the Navy was accompanied by the Commander Northern Naval Area, Rear Admiral Rohitha Abeysinghe. The purpose of the visit was to assess the status of important welfare and operational matters within the area. In addition, he also addressed a cross section of officers and sailors in the Northern Naval Command.

On 19th October, the Commander of the Navy paid his respects at Tissa Viharaya in Kankasanthurai, receiving blessings from the Chief Incumbent, Ven. Gintota Nandarama Thera. Next, Vice Admiral Priyantha Perera delivered an address to officers and sailors at the General Mess of SLNS Uththara, emphasizing the Navy's pivotal role and key responsibilities.

In his address to officers and sailors, the Commander of the Navy emphasized the country's recovery following challenging times and reiterated the Navy’s unwavering responsibility to perform its duties regardless of obstacles. He called for the continued dedication of naval personnel in fulfilling this critical mission, particularly for an island nation like Sri Lanka. Highlighting the Navy’s pivotal role in combatting narcotic smuggling on the high seas, he underscored the importance of safeguarding the younger generation from drugs. The Commander also drew attention to the Navy's efforts in tackling nontraditional maritime threats, ensuring freedom of navigation, and conducting search and rescue operations both within and beyond Sri Lankan waters-actions that have earned international recognition. Furthermore, he proudly noted the Navy’s successful establishment of international partnerships, including its close cooperation with the Combined Maritime Forces. He announced that the Navy will take on a commanding role in Combined Task Force 154 next year, marking another significant achievement in undertaking training of rest of the Combined Task Forces to strengthen regional and global maritime security.

Further, the Commander of the Navy highlighted several key achievements and future goals of the Sri Lanka Navy. He emphasized the Navy's successful search and rescue operations, conducted in coordination with the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) Colombo, and the continuous efforts to maintain a stable ocean region. Also, he proudly noted that the Navy has been recognized by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) for its contributions. Additionally, he mentioned that several foreign countries have expressed their willingness to assist in enhancing the capacity of the Sri Lanka Navy. Looking ahead, he expressed confidence that the Navy's fleet, surveillance capabilities, technology, and Hydrography Service will see significant advancements. To meet these future demands, the Navy introduced the Sri Lanka Navy's Strategy-2030, outlining changes for the Navy and Coast Guard, including plans to maintain manpower in accordance with this strategic vision, he opined.

Vice Admiral Perera emphasized the critical importance of discipline and the need to uphold the Navy's goodwill at all times. He urged naval personnel to utilize the welfare provisions available within the Navy to address financial challenges rather than resort to illegal activities. Highlighting the partnership between the Navy and the Seva Vanitha Unit, he spoke of a new programme designed to solve housing issues for naval personnel. He stressed the necessity of maintaining a clear mind and good mental and physical fitness to ensure dedication to duty while effectively managing personal responsibilities.

Following the address, he inspected ongoing operations, welfare facilities, and construction projects at SLNS Uththara. Additionally, the Commander reviewed the new jetty under construction at SLNS Elara before meeting with Rt Rev. Justin Gnanapragasam, the Bishop of Jaffna. Arrived at Naga Vihara Jaffna, Vice Admiral Perera paid homage and called on Ven. Meegahajadure Sirivimala Nayaka Thera. Subsequently, he paid homage to the Nawathkuli Viharaya in Jaffna and received the blessings of Ven. Hanwelle Rathanasiri Thera of the temple.

On 20th October, Vice Admiral Priyantha Perera paid his obeisance to Chief Sanghanayake of the Northern Province, Dhammakiththi Sri Ven. Navandagala Padumakiththi Tissa Thera at the historic Nagadeepa Purana Viharaya, where he participated in the Katina Pinkama Ceremony. During his visit, he also reviewed the ongoing construction work, carried out by the Navy, at Divisional Hospital Nainativu. The Commander of the Navy then proceeded to SLNS Kanchadewa to inspect its operations and welfare facilities and paid homage to Nallur Kovil, concluding his official visit.

The President of Navy Seva Vanitha Unit, Mrs Mala Lamahewa and a group of senior and junior officers of the Northern Naval Command were present on this occasion.