His Excellency Geoff Q.M. Doidge, South African High Commissioner warmly received the visiting State Defence Minister on arrival.

Secretary to the Ministry of Defence Eng. Karunasena Hettiarachchi was also present at the event.

Addressing the gathering State Minister Hon. Wijewardene stated that, this visit is important as it comes at a time Sri Lanka and South Africa have begun a process of strengthening cooperation in the Defence spear. Opportunities such as this are important as they provide a platform for discussion between militaries and in ascertaining future areas of cooperation, he also noted.

He recalled that, people of Sri Lanka and the leaders have stood by the people of South Africa at very difficult times in the South Africa's history. Sri Lanka established diplomatic relations with the newly formed post apartheid government of South Africa on 4th Sep 1994 and it was further strengthened with the exchange of High Commissioners between the two countries, he added.

Further speaking he went on to say that, having gone through struggles in the past thirty years with terrorism, it is fitting that South Africa has extended a support to Sri Lanka's reconciliation process. Many exchanges have taken place in this regard in the past few years, he also said.

Making a special note on the personal efforts made by the South African High Commissioner His Excellency Geoff Q.M. Doidge, State Minister stated that, government of Sri Lanka deeply appreciates the assistances extended during the past.

State Minister wished the Commanding Officer and the ships crew, fair winds and following seas throughout their passage.

SAS 'Spioenkop' will stay in the island till tomorrow 15th and its crew is due to participate in several programmes organized by the Sri Lanka Navy to strengthen mutual relations.