Colombo, Sri Lanka, July 31 -- Ministry of Defence and Urban Development issued the following news release:
Addressing National Cadet Corps (NCC) cadets at the opening ceremony of the NCC Inter-Provincial Youth Exchange Programme, held at St. Joseph's College, Trincomalee, on 30 July as the Chief Guest, Deputy Minister of Defence Major General Aruna Jayasekara (Retd) urged the youth to transform diversity into a catalyst for nation-building.
In his address, the Deputy Minister underscored the vital role of youth in fostering national reconciliation and lasting unity, emphasizing that peace is built not merely through the absence of conflict but through trust, understanding and meaningful engagement among communities. Highlighting Sri Lanka's multicultural heritage as a symbol of coexistence, he encouraged the youth to embrace diversity, build lasting friendships and preserve harmony within their communities for the betterment of the country.
Drawing attention to the Government's 'Clean Sri Lanka' initiative, the Deputy Minister noted that the programme's vision extends beyond environmental cleanliness to promoting an ethical, inclusive and united society. He stressed that nation-building depends not only on infrastructure and economic development but also on cultivating mutual respect and strengthening coexistence. Calling on the youth to carry the values of the programme into their daily lives, he urged them to become the generation that transforms Sri Lanka's diversity into a source of national strength and shared progress.
The Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Employment, Mr. Arun Hemachandra, Director of the National Cadet Corps, Director of the National Youth Corps, senior tri-forces officers, NCC cadets, and distinguished guests were present on the occasion.
Disclaimer: Curated by HT Syndication.
