KARACHI: Emphasising trade cooperation, Sri Lankan Consul General Sanjeewa Pattiwila underscored efforts to expand bilateral commerce under the Pakistan–Sri Lanka Free Trade Agreement (PSFTA), identifying textiles, tea, medical supplies, agriculture, and joint technical ventures as key opportunity areas.
The Sri Lanka Consulate in Karachi hosted a celebration on the occasion of Sri Lanka’s 78th National Independence Day, highlighting the enduring friendship between Sri Lanka and Pakistan.
The event was presided over by Sanjeewa Pattiwila, Consul General of Sri Lanka in Karachi, who hoisted the Sri Lankan national flag.
In his keynote address, Consul General Pattiwila reflected on Sri Lanka’s journey of resilience, economic recovery, and principled governance.
“Within eighteen months, through collective struggle and determination, Sri Lanka has achieved tangible economic progress, and even in the face of Cyclone Ditwah, our strong foundations allowed us to rebuild and support our communities successfully,” he said.
He expressed gratitude to the gvernment and people of Pakistan for their support during natural disasters and throughout history, calling Pakistan a true and reliable friend for providing humanitarian aid, security cooperation, and educational opportunities, including scholarships for hundreds of Sri Lankan students through the Allama Iqbal Scholarship Scheme.
A large number of Sri Lankan students studying in Karachi attended the ceremony, reflecting growing educational ties between the two countries. Prayers representing Buddhism, Hinduism, Christianity, and Islam were also offered, showcasing Sri Lanka’s cultural diversity.
Consul General Pattiwila also praised Sri Lankan expatriates in Karachi as “true ambassadors of our nation,” acknowledging their contributions in finance, aviation, manufacturing, and logistics.
Quoting President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, he urged unity and brotherhood, saying, “Let us work together to build the beautiful shared dream of a thriving nation and a beautiful life.”
Copyright Business Recorder, 2026
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