Australian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka David Holly and Australian Defence Adviser Group Captain Sean Unwin handed over Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to Navy Commander Vice Admiral Nishantha Ulugetenne on August 14.
High Commissioner Holly said that the Australia Department of Defence is pleased to support Sri Lanka’s armed forces to counter COVID-19 by providing much needed equipment to protect those on the frontline. “This consignment further strengthens our strong partnership with the Sri Lankan Navy and demonstrates our commitment and shared interests on maritime security in our region,” he said. Over 12,000 high quality coveralls and 200,000 gloves manufactured in Sri Lanka by Australian firm Ansell worth USD 130,000 was provided. This is the second consignment of Australian Department of Defence funded PPE delivered to Sri Lanka Armed Forces. Australia provided AUD 4 million for the Sri Lanka’s COVID-19 response including support to the Health Ministry to strengthen national laboratories, crucial food and hygiene items.
