President Mahinda Rajapaksa conferred colours today (Dec 9) to the Northern Naval Command, Eastern Naval Command and Afloat Command of the Sri Lanka Navy, for their outstanding service to the nation.

President's Colours were awarded marking the Diamond Jubilee of the Sri Lanka Navy, at the Colombo Light House premises.

At this event President Mahinda Rajapaksa was accorded a 21- gun salute and a special Guard of Honour by the Sri Lanka Navy.

"From its small beginnings 60 years ago, the sea arm of Sri Lanka deserves much commendation for its outstanding service to the nation, especially in bringing peace to our motherland through strategic and humanitarian operations. As Commander in Chief, I acknowledge with pride, the performance of the Sri Lanka Navy in this valiant task and now being a partner in the country’s development," stated President Rajapaksa in his message to the Sri Lanka Navy on the celebration of its Diamond Jubilee.

The Naval and Maritime Exhibition organized in view of the SLN’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations, commenced on 04th December at the Colombo Light House premises. The exhibition is open for the public from December 4th to the 12th.

The exhibition includes educational stalls showcasing Naval and Maritime history, sailing equipment & tools, weapons and ammunition, uniforms and medals, Naval technological showpieces in the fields of marine and electrical engineering, diving and fire & rescue gear, Naval gunnery items and also weapons and vessels captured from the enemy during the humanitarian operations.

First Lady Shiranthi Rajapaksa, Ministers and MPs, Defence Secretary Gotabaya Rajapaksa, Commanders of the combined forces and Inspector General of Police also participated at this event.