Relations with Colombo important, Qureshi tells Sri Lankan counterpart

In a meeting with his Sri Lankan counterpart, Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi underscored the importance Pakistan attached to its relations with Sri Lanka on Wednesday.

The foreign minister also discussed further strengthening the multifaceted cooperation between the two countries, a statement issued by the foreign office maintained.

Speaking to the Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Dinesh Gunawardena in a bilateral meeting in Colombo, Qureshi stressed that Prime Minister Imran Khan’s present visit was reflective of the priority accorded to this relationship.

During the meeting, both diplomats reviewed the whole gamut of bilateral relations.

Underscoring the need to enhance trade and investment between the two countries, FM Qureshi expressed satisfaction at the progress made during the recently held meetings of the 12th Joint Economic Commission (JEC) and 7th Commerce Secretary Level talks.

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He welcomed the convening of the “Trade and Investment Conference” jointly chaired by PM Imran and Sri Lankan Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa.

To realise the full potential of bilateral trade, the need to further expand the Pakistan-Sri Lanka Free Trade Agreement (FTA) was underscored, the statement read.

In the context of economic connectivity, the foreign minister highlighted that China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a flagship project of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), could be a game changer for the entire region.

He also highlighted the mutual benefit that linking of Gwadar Port in Pakistan to the Sri Lankan ports could bring to both the countries. He invited Sri Lanka to benefit from the Gwadar Port for easy access to the Central Asian markets.

Noting the close traditional and cultural ties between the two countries, Qureshi further proposed on promoting religious tourism.

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He also welcomed the reconstitution of Sri Lanka-Pakistan Parliamentary Friendship Group in Sri Lankan Parliament and emphasised the importance of regular parliamentary exchanges to reinforce bilateral cooperation in diverse fields.

The top diplomat stated that Pakistan was a key partner of Sri Lanka in human resource development. In this regard, he highlighted the Pakistan-Sri Lanka Higher Education Cooperation Programme (PSLHECP).

Qureshi also appreciated the Sri Lankan cricket team’s visit that led to the return of international cricket to Pakistan and shared Pakistan’s perspective on major issues of regional and international importance.

The two foreign ministers reaffirmed the commitment for close cooperation at the regional and international fora, including the UN and SAARC.

In addition, they agreed to work closely to further strengthen ties and enhance cooperation in diverse fields.