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| Sunday, 14 December 2003 |
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Gen. Balagalle's visit 'successful' Indian military aid package by Anton Nonis India has offered a package of military assistance that would come in useful in the event of future military operations, Army Commander Lieutenant General Lionel Balagalle has disclosed following his recent official visit to Delhi. The military aid is expected to include the supply of transport helicopters to enhance the armed forces airlift capability, the rehabilitation of the airstrip at the vital Palaly military base in Jaffna, as well as various kinds of military training programmes. The Army Chief told the Sunday Observer yesterday that during his 4-day visit he had held official talks with Indian Defence Minister George Fernandes as well as the heads of the three armed services. The Indian Defence Minister had assured General Balagalle that India was ready to extend all necessary support for Sri Lanka's urgent defence needs. Gen. Balagalle pointed out that the Palaly airstrip urgently needed rehabilitation to improve the armed forces logistical capability in relation to the Jaffna Peninsula. The supply of transport helicopters would offset the current deficiencies in the air transport capability until the airstrip repairs enable the use of heavy transport planes. India was poised to provide transport planes as well, he disclosed. In addition to his high level talks, the Army Chief also toured the Indian army frontlines at the Line of Control in embattled Kashmir. The Indian defence package will include expanded training programmes for Sri Lankan troops to enhance the combat capability in various kinds of warfare. Gen. Balagalle observed that his visit had been succesfull in laying the foundation for improved Indo-Lanka defence ties. He declined to give details of intelligence cooperation and other subjects. |
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