It is a matter of pride for me to be here at the IPKF Memorial in Sri Lanka, raised in honour of those brave soldiers of the Indian Armed Forces, who paid the ultimate sacrifice while serving the cause of peace in Sri Lanka. This Memorial is an abiding testimony to the strong bonds of friendship between the governments and the peoples of India and Sri Lanka. It is also a symbol of India's commitment to the unity, stability and territorial integrity of Sri Lanka. On this occasion, I would like to pay my humble tribute to the exceptional courage and commitment shown by our soldiers under extremely challenging circumstances.