Russian Ground Forces Commander-in-Chief arrives in Sri Lanka

The Commander-in-Chief of the Russian Ground Forces, Army General Oleg Salyukov, arrived in Sri Lanka on a five-day goodwill tour on the invitation of his Sri Lankan counterpart Lieutenant General Shavendra Silva, acting Chief of Defense Staff and Commander of the Army.

General Salyukov, who arrived at the Bandaranaike International Airport in Katunayake airport this morning, was warmly received by Major General Sathyapriya Liyanage, Chief of Staff of the Sri Lanka Army. 

During his visit, General Salyukov is scheduled to call on President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa and tri-forces commanders. He is scheduled to offer a tribute at the War Heroes’ Monument at Sri Jayewardenepura before he visits the Sapugaskanda Defense Services Command and Staff College, Sri Lanka Armored Corps Regimental Centre and several other places of interest.

General Salyukov is also scheduled to participate in the island nation’s 72nd Independence celebrations tomorrow as its Chief Guest.

Pix by Pradeep Pathirana