Sri Lanka and Pakistan Expanding Cooperation in 2024!

Introduction

Sri Lanka and Pakistan share a long-standing relationship marked by mutual support and cooperation across various fields. Admiral Ravindra C Wijegunaratne (retd), the Sri Lankan High Commissioner to Pakistan, recently highlighted this strong bond during a seminar organized by the Institute of Regional Studies (IRS) in Islamabad. This article explores the depth of Sri Lanka-Pakistan relations, focusing on areas such as trade, investment, defense, tourism, education, and people-to-people contacts.

Historical Context

Early Relations

The relationship between Sri Lanka and Pakistan dates back to their respective independence. Both countries have supported each other through numerous challenges, fostering a strong partnership built on trust and shared interests.

Support in Times of Need

Admiral Wijegunaratne emphasized Sri Lanka’s gratitude for Pakistan’s assistance in combating terrorism, particularly during the Sri Lankan Civil War. This support has cemented a bond of solidarity between the two nations.

Key Areas of Cooperation

Trade and Investment

Free Trade Agreement

Sri Lanka and Pakistan have a free trade agreement (FTA) that offers numerous opportunities for economic collaboration. High Commissioner Wijegunaratne pointed out untapped areas of potential cooperation that could be leveraged through effective implementation of the FTA.

Enhancing Bilateral Trade

Both countries are keen to enhance bilateral trade. President IRS, Ambassador Jauhar Saleem, expressed confidence that the upcoming Seventh Round of Bilateral Political Consultations would pave the way for increased trade and investment.

Defense and Counterterrorism

Historical Military Support

Pakistan has historically supported Sri Lanka in its fight against terrorism. This military cooperation has strengthened the defense ties between the two nations.

Future Collaboration

High-level discussions are ongoing to further enhance defense and counterterrorism cooperation. The mutual understanding and trust between the two countries make them strong partners in regional security.

Tourism

Potential for Growth

Sri Lanka and Pakistan recognize the potential for growth in tourism. Sri Lanka is home to numerous Buddhist sites that could attract Pakistani tourists, while Pakistan offers rich cultural and historical attractions for Sri Lankan visitors.

Learning from Each Other

Ambassador Seema Ilahi Baloch, former High Commissioner of Pakistan to Sri Lanka, emphasized the need to draw insights from Sri Lanka’s expertise in tourism and hospitality to boost Pakistan’s tourism sector.

Education

Educational Exchanges

Educational exchanges between the two countries have been a significant area of cooperation. There is a strong desire to expand these exchanges to foster closer ties between the younger generations of both nations.

Scholarships and Training Programs

Both countries offer scholarships and training programs to each other’s students and professionals, enhancing the educational links and mutual understanding.

People-to-People Contacts

Cultural Exchanges

Strengthening people-to-people connections through cultural exchanges is a priority for both countries. These exchanges help in building a deeper understanding and appreciation of each other’s cultures.

Diplomatic Engagements

The frequent diplomatic engagements and high-level visits between Sri Lanka and Pakistan play a crucial role in maintaining the warmth of their relationship.

Key Statements and Perspectives

Admiral Ravindra C Wijegunaratne

Admiral Wijegunaratne expressed optimism for sustained mutual support between Sri Lanka and Pakistan. He highlighted the significance of collaborating on regional and global issues where both countries have shared perceptions.

Ambassador Jauhar Saleem

Ambassador Saleem appreciated Sri Lanka’s donation of 88,000 eye corneas to the world, with 36,000 sent to Pakistan. This act demonstrated the depth of the relationship between the two nations.

Ambassador Seema Ilahi Baloch

Ambassador Baloch emphasized the importance of strengthening people-to-people connections and learning from Sri Lanka’s expertise in tourism and hospitality.

Major Gen (r) Saad Khattak

Major Gen (r) Saad Khattak stressed the significance of collaboration beyond strategic and security areas, advocating for a broader partnership.

Dr. Shaheen Akhtar

Dr. Akhtar highlighted the level of trust and cordiality that has existed between the two countries since independence, underpinning the robust relationship.

Mr. Ilyas Mehmood Nizami

Mr. Nizami called for leveraging the high level of bilateral goodwill to maximize cooperation in trade, education, religious tourism, and defense.

Future Prospects

Bilateral Political Consultations

The upcoming Seventh Round of Bilateral Political Consultations between Sri Lanka and Pakistan is expected to further enhance cooperation. These consultations will focus on identifying new areas of collaboration and strengthening existing ties.

Expanding Trade and Investment

Both countries aim to boost trade and investment by exploring new sectors and leveraging the FTA. The focus will be on creating a conducive environment for businesses to thrive.

Enhancing Defense Cooperation

Strengthening defense ties and counterterrorism efforts will remain a priority. Both nations are committed to ensuring regional security and stability through joint initiatives.

Boosting Tourism

By capitalizing on their rich cultural heritage and historical sites, Sri Lanka and Pakistan aim to increase tourism flows. Collaborative efforts will focus on marketing and infrastructure development.

Strengthening Educational Links

Expanding educational exchanges and offering more scholarships will help build a stronger foundation for future cooperation. Both countries will continue to invest in training programs and academic partnerships.

Conclusion

The relationship between Sri Lanka and Pakistan is built on a strong foundation of mutual support and cooperation. From trade and investment to defense, tourism, education, and people-to-people contacts, both countries are committed to expanding their partnership. The upcoming Bilateral Political Consultations will be a key milestone in this journey, paving the way for a brighter future for both nations. By leveraging their shared interests and common goals, Sri Lanka and Pakistan can continue to strengthen their ties and contribute to regional peace and stability.

References

1. Institute of Regional Studies (IRS)
2. Sri Lankan High Commission, Islamabad
3. Pakistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs
4. Sri Lanka Export Development Board
5. Tourism Development Authority of Pakistan

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