ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Imran Khan on Tuesday asserted that security and defence cooperation had been a key component of Pakistan-Sri Lanka relations and a factor of peace and stability in the region.
The Prime Minister was talking to Vice Admiral Nishantha Ulugetenne, Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy, who called on him here. PM Imran stated that Pakistan attached immense importance to its relations with Sri Lanka as a reliable friend and partner.
The Prime Minister stated that Pakistan attaches immense importance to its relations with Sri Lanka as a reliable friend and partner.
— Prime Minister’s Office, Pakistan (@PakPMO) February 22, 2022
The premier further said that Pakistan’s desire to comprehensively upgrade bilateral relations in all fields and he is looking forward to the visit of Sri Lankan leadership to Islamabad.
Fondly recalling his visit to Sri Lanka in February 2021, the Prime Minister reaffirmed the strong fraternal bonds between the two countries and Pakistan’s desire to comprehensively upgrade bilateral relations in all fields.
Speaking on the occasion, Vice Admiral Nishantha Ulugetenne underlined the close cooperative ties between the two countries and expressed gratitude for Pakistan’s support at international and regional fora. He reaffirmed the commitment to work together for the promotion of shared goals.
COAS Gen Bajwa meets Sri Lankan Vice Admiral
According to Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Sri Lankan Navy Commander Vice Admiral Nishantha Ulugetenne called on Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa at the General Headquarters (GHQ) in Rawalpindi today.
During the meeting, matters of mutual interest, regional security, and the current Afghanistan situation were discussed, the military’s media wing said.
Speaking on the occasion, COAS Bajwa reiterated that all regional countries need to work collectively for enduring peace and stability. “Pakistan wishes to enhance long term multi-domain relations with Sri Lanka based on common interests,” the COAS said.
The Sri Lankan commander lauded the professionalism of the country’s armed forces and vowed to continue military cooperation between two forces in defence, training and counter-terrorism domains.
Vice Admiral Ulugetenne also appreciated Pakistan’s role in the Afghan situation, special efforts for border management and role in regional stability, the statement added.