SL, Pakistan ties further strengthened

Atapattu BANDARA

Pakistan High Commissioner in Sri Lanka Seema Illahi Baloch said the cultural bond between Sri Lanka and Pakistan maintained throughout history will be further strengthened and the friendship between the two countries will remain more stronger.

She was addressing the 65th Pakistan Independence day celebrations at the Hilton Hotel Colombo Wednesday. Sri Lanka is a long-term friend of Pakistan. Whenever a helping hand was needed, both countries came forward to help each other without hesitation as true friends, she said.

Both countries have strengthened ties in the spheres of culture, religion, social and sports, especially cricket, the envoy said.

Human Resources Senior Minister Dew Gunasekara addressing the ceremony said Pakistan is the second largest trade partner to Sri Lanka in South Asia. "We should expand the awareness among the businessmen to explore the Sri Lankan market. Investment, tourism and culture are the areas that should be explored."