Sunday Times 2
Military chiefs take part in Pakistan HC celebrates
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Sri Lanka's security forces commanders join Pakistan's High Commissioner Shahid Ahmad Hashmat and Defence Advisor Col. Sajjad Ali in the celebrations
To celebrate the 54th Defence Day of Pakistan, the High Commission of Pakistan held a reception on Thursday in Colombo.
Sri Lanka’s Defence Secretary, Gen. Shantha Kottegoda was the chief guest.
The Pakistan High Commission’s Defence Advisor, Col. Sajjad Ali, in his welcome address highlighted the role of Pakistani armed forces in eliminating the scourge of extremism and terrorism from Pakistan and bringing peace and stability to the country. He said Pakistan is one of the largest contributors to UN peacekeeping missions to establish international peace.
Gen. Kottegoda, in his remarks, said that Pakistan has been a true friend of Sri Lanka. He recalled that Pakistan has rendered unconditional support to Sri Lanka in defeating the LTTE, the most ruthless terrorist outfit in the world. “The Government and people of Sri Lanka will never forget the moral and material support of Pakistan,” he said.
He added that Pakistan and Sri Lankan armed forces have maintained close cooperation, especially in providing training to large number of Sri Lankan military personnel.
Pakistan’s High Commissioner of, Maj. Gen. (Retd) Dr. Shahid Ahmad Hashmat said Pakistan believes in supporting and promoting regional and international peace and stability by resolving all disputes and conflicts. He said Kashmir dispute is an internationally recognised issue and needs to be resolved in accordance with the UNSC resolutions and aspirations of Kashmiri people.
Dr. Shahid Hashmat reiterated Pakistan’s resolve to extend all possible political, moral and diplomatic support to Kashmiris until they attain their inalienable right of self-determination.
The High Commissioner also mentioned about 1000 scholarships offered by Pakistan Higher Education Commission to Sri Lankan students and COMSATS’ offer to establish a high-tech university in Sri Lanka.