ISLAMABAD, Feb 3: President Asif Ali Zardari, representing both the Government and the people of Pakistan, conveyed heartfelt congratulations to Anura Kumara Dissanayake, President of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka, as well as to the Sri Lankan Government and its citizens, on the occasion of the nation’s 78th Independence Day.
“This significant day showcases the unity and national pride of the Sri Lankan people, along with the enduring strength and continuity of their national journey, deeply rooted in their rich cultural heritage and resilience. Pakistan and Sri Lanka share a robust and enduring friendship, having supported each other through various challenges,” the president remarked in a statement released by the President’s Secretariat Media Wing.
He highlighted Pakistan’s supportive role in Sri Lanka’s fight against terrorism, emphasizing the collaborative effort between the two nations.
President Zardari also praised Sri Lanka’s active participation in South Asian cooperation, recalling the country’s role in hosting the 6th (1991), 10th (1998), and 15th (2008) SAARC summits in Colombo. He expressed disappointment over the long-standing halt of SAARC summits due to India’s actions, which have prevented the summit that was to be hosted by Pakistan.
“Today, I hope that Sri Lanka and Pakistan will continue to work jointly to ensure South Asian security and revitalize SAARC,” the president expressed. He underscored the enduring and brotherly relations between Pakistan and Sri Lanka, which are based on mutual trust, goodwill, and shared values. These bonds have enabled both countries to support each other through testing times and significant achievements alike,” he stated.
President Zardari expressed confidence in the ever-strengthening friendship and cooperation between Pakistan and Sri Lanka, looking forward to more profound bilateral relations in the future.
