Ministry of Defence - Sri Lanka

Deputy Defence Minister and Defence Secretary Attend
Türkiye’s 102nd Republic Day Celebration

October 30, 2025

The Embassy of the Republic of Türkiye in Sri Lanka hosted a grand reception to commemorate the 102nd Anniversary of the Proclamation of the Republic of Türkiye at the Shangri-La Hotel, Colombo, on 29th October 2025.

The event was graced by Hon. Hiniduma Sunil Senevi, Minister of Buddha Sasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs, as the Chief Guest. Deputy Minister of Defence, Major General Aruna Jayasekara (Retd), and Defence Secretary, Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha (Retd), attended as Guests of Honour, symbolising the continued commitment to the strong and friendly relations between Sri Lanka and Türkiye.

Upon their arrival, the dignitaries were warmly welcomed by His Excellency Lütfü Turgut, Ambassador of the Republic of Türkiye to Sri Lanka.

In his welcome address, Ambassador Turgut emphasized the enduring bilateral relationship, highlighting the growing cooperation in education, culture, national trade, and naval and maritime security. He reiterated Türkiye’s interest in further strengthening ties with Sri Lanka through diplomatic, economic, and cultural collaboration.

Addressing the gathering, Minister Sunil Senevi commended the longstanding defence, economic, cultural, and security cooperation between the two nations. He also underlined the importance of sustaining these mutually beneficial partnerships in the years ahead.

The ceremony brought together a distinguished gathering, including Cabinet Ministers, ambassadors, the Leader of the Opposition, Commanders of the Tri-Forces, senior military officers, members of the diplomatic corps, and other high-level dignitaries.