The President made these remarks at a meeting held after opening of the post-graduate faculty building of Kotelawala Defence University in Rathmalana today (Aug. 04). The new building which was built at a cost of Rs. 750 million consists 16 lecture halls, computer labs, auditoriums, canteens and other facilities.

The importance of the Kotelawala Defence University is invaluable when we consider about how to cope with the invasive strategies, effects and plans of powerful countries, the president pointed out.

President Sirisena who arrived in Kotelawala Defence University was welcomed by the Defence Secretary B. M. U. D. Basnayake, Vice-Chancellor of the University Major General Milinda Peiris, and the Chancellor of the University Mr. Rohan Daluwatta.

The President also inscribed a message in a souvenir to mark this occasion.

The university is currently providing 11 degree courses for local and foreign students. The number of courses will be expanded in the future.

Heads of the tri-forces, defense heads, faculty deans, professors and doctors as well as university students participated in this event.