Marked difference in post-2009 Sri Lanka - Pakistan envoy

Pakistan last week hailed Sri Lanka's efforts in tackling terrorism, saying there was a "marked difference" in the country in its post-2009 phase of development.

Visiting Pakistani Foreign Secretary Jalil Abaas Jilani made the comments during his meeting with President Mahinda Rajapaksa last Thursday. Jilani told President Rajapaksa that "there is a marked difference" in Sri Lanka from when he last visited the island in 2005, the President's Office said.

"There is peace and tranquillity one feels," Jilani said.

"We deeply appreciate and admire the manner in which your government has been able to take care of terrorism," he told Rajapaksa.

Pakistan had in March voted against a United States-sponsored Resolution on Sri Lanka's human rights record, which was adopted in the 47-nation strong United Nations Human Rights Council.

Rajapaksa noted with appreciation Pakistan's support both during and after the battle against terrorism, stating that Islamabad played a crucial role in assisting Sri Lanka during decisive times.

Jilani was on a three-day visit to Colombo to take part in the third round of bilateral consultations.

-PTI