COLOMBO: High Commissioner of Pakistan in Sri Lanka Maj Gen Syed Shakeel Hussain on Thursday said the relations between Pakistan and Sri Lanka firmly stood on the pillars of mutual trust, respect and desire to promote friendship.
High-level visits, exchanges and multiple institutional mechanisms continuously provided renewed vigour to propel and expand the relationship to new heights, he added. Speaking at the flag hoisting ceremony marking the 77th Pakistan Day here at the High Commission’s premises, the High Commissioner underscored that the Government of Pakistan was engaged in Sri Lanka’s social sector development as well.
Some of the projects being sponsored included construction of houses, schools and drinking water wells, setting up computer training centres, upgrading hospitals in rural areas, he added. In addition, Pakistan had been providing educational and technical scholarships to Sri Lankan students over the last many decades, he said. He said the two countries were located at two global strategic junctions on the land and maritime silk route respectively that had always been the meeting places of global civilisations, trade and cultures.
Their importance had increased tremendously in modern times for promoting cultural, civilizational and trade dialogue among the world nations. Shakeel Hussain said the relationship between the two peoples existed from time immemorial taking a firm shape through 2,500 years old linkages established during the golden era of Gandhara civilisation.
The High Commissioner on the occasion also read out the message of Prime Minister while the President’s message was read out by Deputy High Commissioner Dr Sarfraz Ahmed Khan Sipra, said a press release. The High Commissioner highlighted that March 23, 1940, was the most significant day in the country’s history as on that day the idea of Pakistan was formalised as a political goal for the Muslims of South Asia in their struggle for obtaining an independent homeland for themselves.It was with the immense sacrifices and tireless efforts of great forefathers that an independent nation-state of Pakistan came into being on August 14, 1947, he elaborated.
It was with the immense sacrifices and tireless efforts of great forefathers that an independent nation-state of Pakistan came into being on August 14, 1947, he elaborated. The High Commissioner also expressed his gratitude to the Sri Lanka-Pakistan Friendship, Trade and Investment Association for gifting 35 corners to the people of Pakistan.
Shakeel Hussain conveyed warm regards and best wishes from the government and people of Pakistan to the government and people of Sri Lanka. The High Commissioner hoisted the Flag of Pakistan and cut Pakistan Day cake with children during the ceremony attended by a large number of participants from various walks of life, including members of the Sri Lanka Pakistan Friendship, Trade and Investment Association, Pakistan Sri Lanka Business Council, prominent Sri Lankan personalities, Pakistani community and wide section of media.
