A contingent of 1,132 men from the Sri Lankan Army and the Special Police Force is preparing to deploy to Haiti to join the Gang Supression Force (GSF). This will be the largest deployment of Sri Lankan forces to date.

The contingent will include 900 army soldiers from various regiments, 189 officers from the Special Police Force, and, for the first time in Sri Lanka's military history, 43 female soldiers specially trained in demining and explosive ordnance disposal.

Addressing the assembly, President Anura Kumara Dissanayake stated that this deployment to Haiti demonstrates to the world that Sri Lanka has forces ready to defend the protection, democracy, and human rights of oppressed peoples, wherever they may be.

He described this mission as a source of pride and honor for the nation, adding that while Sri Lanka may not become the wealthiest country, it can certainly become one of the most respected and dignified.

The President emphasized that every member of the contingent carries the nation's pride on their shoulders and urged them to uphold Sri Lanka's honor and dignity by fulfilling their duties with dedication and professionalism.

The contingent is scheduled to be deployed to Haiti in August as part of the Gang Supression Force (GSF) to support international efforts to restore peace and stability by combating armed gangs and terrorists.

IH/ iciHaiti