Pakistan assistance for Sambuddha Jayanthi

Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari extended his government's fullest co-operation towards the celebrations connected with the 2600th Sambuddha Jayanthi, when he met Prime Minister D.M. Jayaratne last week.

Prime Minister Jayaratne, accompanied by Senior Minister and Minister in attendance A.H.M. Fowzie, High Commissioner for Sri Lanka in Pakistan Jayalath Weerakkody and Director General Ministry of External Affairs Anura Rajakaruna called on the visiting President at a Colombo hotel.

The President of Pakistan referred to the long-standing close bilateral relations that had steadily grown and strengthened over the years between the two countries. He congratulated Sri Lanka for her success in defeating the 30-year war against a ruthless terrorist group.

"Pakistan feels quite happy that she could assist Sri Lanka in its fight against terrorism which hindered the economic and social progress of the country for three decades", he said.

President Zardari reiterated that towards strengthening bilateral economic co-operation, it is of vital importance that trade and business opportunities be opened up in both countries to be taken advantage of by investors and entrepreneurs of the two countries.

Prime Minister Jayaratne reiterated the strong bonds of friendship between the two countries since the establishment of Pakistan. The Pakistani President mentioned that the fullest support of the Pakistan government would be extended towards the celebrations connected with the 2600th Sambuddha Jayanthi.