Addressing the occupying military in Vanni, secretary of defence Gotabhaya Rajapksa, noted that their foremost responsibility was to “ensure that all measures are adopted to win hearts and minds of the Northern civilians and prevent the recurrence of terrorism".

After opening with this noble statement, the defence secretary went on to describe a series of welfare projects that have been launched for the sake of the military service personnel and “war hero families”.

Gotabhaya outlined the importance of conveying to the international community that the military were disciplined, noble and met professional standards.

“The success we achieved over terrorism can be made more meaningful when the world is convinced of our soldiers’ exceptional professional standards and their disciplined dedication for the betterment of civilians,”

 “By displaying our magnanimity as professional soldiers when dealt with civilian-oriented projects, we will be able to carry the correct picture to the world.”

The defence secretary was in the Regimental Headquarters of the military in Vanni to address the troops after reviewing the different roles of the occupying army in post-war Vanni.