Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force delegation meets Acting Defence Minister Tennakoon

•   Minister Tennakoon visits Japanese ship SAMIDARE

A delegation of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) met the Acting Defence Minister Hon. Premitha Bandara Tennakoon at his office in Colombo Friday (21 Jul).

Minister Tennakoon extended a warm reception to the delegation led by Flag Officer, Rear Admiral NISHIYAMA Takahiro and had a cordial discussion.

Minister Tennakoon expressed gratitude to the Japanese Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force for their assistance and cooperation extended to the Sri Lanka Navy and the Coastguard.

While recalling Japan’s unrestricted support during times of need, he thanked the Japanese government for its longstanding friendship and excellent bilateral relations between the two nations.

The Japanese officials also thanked the Minister for the hospitality and also pledged to continue their support to Sri Lanka.

At the end of the discussion, Minister Tennakoon and Rear Admiral NISHIYAMA Takahiro exchanged mementos to mark the occasion.

Deputy Chief of Staff Navy and Director General – Operations Rear Admiral Pradeep Rathnayake was also present at the occasion.

The Japanese delegation arrived in Sri Lanka on Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Destroyer SAMIDARE on Thursday (20 Jul) making an official visit.

Minister Tennakoon also visited the Japanese ship SAMIDARE last evening. He was received by the Ambassador of Japan to Sri Lanka MIZUKOSHI Hideaki.

Minister of Ports, Shipping and Aviation Hon. Nimal Siripala de Silva, Chief of Defence Staff Gen Shavendra Silva, Navy Commander Vice Admiral Priyantha Perera, senior armed forces officers and Japanese High Commission officials were also present at the occasion.