ISLAMABAD: Sri Lanka’s High Commissioner to Pakistan, Admiral (R) Ravindra C Wijegunaratne, said that his country will never forget Islamabad’s support during challenging times particularly in fighting against terrorism.
He was addressing a seminar organized by the Institute of Regional Studies (IRS) in the country’s capital Islamabad.
In his address, Ravindra C Wijegunaratne expressed Sri Lanka’s strong commitment to deepening collaboration with Pakistan across various sectors including trade, investment, defense, tourism, education, and enhancing people-to-people connections.
Reflecting on the historical bond between the two nations, Admiral Wijegunaratne highlighted their mutual support during challenging times. He specifically expressed gratitude for Pakistan’s assistance in combating terrorism in Sri Lanka and voiced optimism for continued mutual support in the future. He also emphasized the importance of joint efforts on regional and global issues where both countries share common views.
Admiral Wijegunaratne pointed out Sri Lanka’s role as a key international shipping hub and identified untapped potential for cooperation, particularly through the effective implementation of the existing free trade agreement.
He also expressed a desire to boost tourism, noting the many Buddhist sites in Pakistan. The significance of the upcoming Seventh Round of Bilateral Political Consultations between Sri Lanka and Pakistan was also highlighted.
President IRS, Ambassador Jauhar Saleem, commended Sri Lanka for its donation of 88,000 eye corneas globally, including 36,000 to Pakistan, reflecting the depth of the bilateral relationship.
He also noted the enduring friendship between the nations, characterized by unconditional support during times of peace and conflict. Echoing Admiral Wijegunaratne’s views, he expressed confidence that the upcoming foreign secretary-level consultations would enhance cooperation, particularly in trade and investment.
Ambassador Seema Ilahi Baloch, former High Commissioner of Pakistan to Sri Lanka, stressed the need to strengthen people-to-people connections and suggested learning from Sri Lanka’s tourism and hospitality expertise.
Major General (R) Saad Khattak, former High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, emphasized the importance of expanding collaboration beyond strategic and security domains.
Dr. Shaheen Akhtar, a professor at NDU, highlighted the deep trust and cordiality between the two countries since their independence. Mr. Ilyas Mehmood Nizami, Director General for South Asia at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, called for leveraging the strong bilateral goodwill to maximize cooperation in trade, education, religious tourism, and defense, including counterterrorism.
The seminar attracted a diverse audience, including diplomats, researchers, academics, and students.
