A grand reception was held in Colombo by the Sri Lanka National University of Defence Alumni Association (NDUAASL) to celebrate its first anniversary and the 94th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA). Around 30 representatives of the Alumni Association attended the reception, with Defence Secretary General Kamal Gunaratne as the Chief Guest.

General G.D.H. Kamal Gunaratne (Retd) extended sincere congratulations on the first Anniversary of NDUAASL and the forthcoming 94th Anniversary of the Founding of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA).
He said China and Sri Lanka are maintaining cordial bilateral relations, which dates back to the 4th century AD. Mutual understanding and support given by each other has been a tradition since ancient times. “We consider China as a superpower. Being a superpower, China does not interfere in the internal affairs of Sri Lanka or other countries, which is highly appreciated. Smaller countries, including us, are burning with certain problems, maybe economic crisis, natural disasters, or environmental calamities. China has always been there to help, with timely assistance. When we were challenged by the United Nations Human Rights Council on war crimes and crimes against humanity, China supported us by exercising the veto power against the UNHRC Resolution against Sri Lanka, which will never be forgotten even by our future generations. ”

“China has been supporting Sri Lanka during the 30 year-long conflict. China was the frontline country that came to help and showed real friendship.” he added.

There are lots of serving and retired military officers from tri-services of Sri Lanka who attended NDU. After the courses, they have served this country in tri forces and some are retired now. They don’t forget the good old days in NDU China. “The specialised personal training and professional military education they have gained make them respect NDU. That is the reason why they want to form an Alumni Association.” In 2010, General G.D.H. Kamal Gunaratne inaugurated the NDU Alumni Association of Sri Lanka as the Chief Guest.

Sri Lanka Customs General Director, Major General (Retd) G. V. Ravipriya, President of NDUAASL delivered his message in both English and Chinese. He said, “Long live China-Sri Lanka friendship.” He is also the one who started the association, which would serve as a bridge to connect NDU alumni in Sri Lanka with its Alma mater in China and help continue the centuries-long friendship between the two countries.