Sunday Times 2
70th Independence Day of Pakistan
View(s):Speaking on the occasion of the 70th Independence Day of Pakistan in Colombo, the High Commissioner of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan in Sri Lanka, Maj Gen (R) Syed Shakeel Hussain said that economic cooperation coupled with peaceful resolution of disputes will pave the way for a promising future for not just the south Asian region but also for the world at large.
The High Commissioner said that the Government of Pakistan is actively engaged with all neighbouring countries in an effort to create a peaceful neighbourhood and at the same time intensifying economic engagement with all friendly countries.
On Pakistan-Sri Lanka relations, he explained that historical and cultural links date back to the time when the Indus Valley and Gandhara Civilisations prospered in what is now Pakistan. Pakistan and Sri Lankan are continuing to nurture their mutually beneficial relations in diverse fields with both countries exploring ways to broaden and deepen economic ties, through enhancement of trade and bilateral investments, within the framework of the Free Trade Agreement.
The Chief Justice of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan Justice Anwar Zaheer Jamali who is currently visiting Sri Lanka, was the chief guest on the occasion. In his address, the Chief Justice said that Pakistan attaches great importance to its relations with Sri Lanka, in both bilateral and regional context. Chief Justice Jamali said there is a strong desire in Pakistan to further develop and promote the bilateral relationship between the two friendly countries.
He also commended the government of Sri Lanka for taking admirable initiatives to promote interfaith harmony, reconciliation and national unity between all the segments of society. The High Commissioner also hoisted the national flag of Pakistan and cut the Independence Day cake along with the Chief guest and children. Later, the messages of the President and Prime Minister of Pakistan were read out to the participants.
The flag hoisting ceremony was 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, High Commission officials and the media.
The video of first ever tri-lingual Pakistan Sri Lanka friendship anthem produced by the High Commission of Pakistan Colombo was also launched by the Chief Justice Anwar Zaheer Jamali and High Commissioner Maj Gen (R) Syed Shakeel Hussain.