He was addressing the staff members of the Ministry participating as the Chief Guest at a  ceremony held at the Ministry of Defence and Urban Development Thursday morning (01st January) in view of the New Year. The customary ceremony is held at the beginning of every year to usher in the New Year and also renew the pledge of state service.

He was accompanied by the Chairperson of the Seva Vanitha Unit of the MOD&UD Mrs. Ioma Rajapaksa. 

After observing a moment of silence as a tribute to the War Heroes the heads and officials of institutions coming under the purview of the MOD&UD and the ministry staff who were present at the venue took the Government's Servant's Oath.

He expressed gratitude for the outstanding services rendered by the institutes under the MOD&UD in the past year and also wished all for a successful new year.

Secretary Defence and Mrs. Rajapaksa joined those present to enjoy a traditional breakfast spread after the morning's proceedings. (KH)