Pak-SL bond serves as beacon for South Asian countries: Envoy
August 14, 2015 01:14 pm
The High Commissioner of Pakistan in Sri Lanka, Maj Gen (R) Syed Shakeel Hussain says that the brotherly and time tested relationship between Pakistan and Sri Lanka, having depth, breadth and diversity, serves as a beacon for other countries of South Asia.
The High Commissioner said this while delivering his message on the occasion of the 69th Independence Day of Pakistan today in Colombo.
Hussain said that the Government of Pakistan is actively engaged with all neighboring countries in an effort to create a peaceful neighborhood and at the same time intensifying economic engagement with all friendly countries.
On Pakistan-Sri Lanka relations, he explained that historical and cultural links between the two peoples date back to the time when the Indus Valley and Gandhara Civilizations prospered in what is now Pakistan. He further said that Pakistan and Sri Lankan are continuing to nurture their mutually beneficial relations in diverse fields.
He added that both countries are exploring ways to broaden and deepen the economic ties, through enhancement of trade and bilateral investments, within the framework of the Free Trade Agreement as their top most priority.
The High Commissioner highlighted that the President Sirisena’s state visit to Pakistan in April, 2015, is a testimony to the fact that both countries attach great importance to this mutually beneficial relationship.
Shakeel Hussain said that Pakistan and Sri Lankan face significant challenges, at the same time they have tremendous opportunities. This mutuality provides a wide canvas for both countries to help and support each other, in order to jointly overcome challenges and maximize opportunities, he added.
