Sri Lankans proud of Pakistan: High Commissioner

Islamabad: High Commissioner of the Democratic Republic of Sri Lanka Air Chief Marshal (r) Jayalath Weerakkody on Friday said we are proud of Pakistan and wants bilateral trade to reflect our warm relations.

Pakistan is our second largest trading partner in South Asia, Sri Lanka was the first country to sign a Free Trade Agreement with Pakistan, he said while talking to a delegation led by Samina Fazil, founder President, Islamabad Women’s Chamber of Commerce and Industry (IWCCI).

President IWCCI Farida Rashid, Naima Ansari and others were also present on the occasion.

Jayalath Weerakkody said we are verge on finalising 200 a million dollar export credit line that Pakistan would extend to Sri Lanka.

He said that both the countries were enjoying deep political relation and now it was time to promote bilateral trade which would benefit the region.

Current volume of trade is $ 400 million which will be boosted to $ 1 billion in two years, he informed.

“Sri Lanka is keen to invest in Pakistan and our share in local tea market is gradually increasing from earlier two per cent,” he said.

The High Commissioner said Pakistani products are very popular in the Sri Lankan markets and they have established their names due to their high quality.

He appreciated Islamabad’s role in regional stability, peace and defence cooperation with Colombo and stressed frequent exchanges.

Speaking at the occasion, Samina Fazil and Farida Rashid stressed the need of continuous interaction between the business communities of the two countries.

They extended invitation to Sri Lankan High Commission and businessmen to participate in Islamabad Expo 2013 which was accepted.

Mr. Weerakkody said that he will ask related ministries and business chambers to ensure maximum participation in the upcoming Islamabad expo 2013.