KARACHI: Sri Lanka and Pakistan have very close relations but these can be further strengthened by increasing their bilateral trade.
This was stated by newly appointed Sri Lankan Consul General, H.M.B. Herath at a media reception hosted at his residence, here on Saturday, said a release.
The Sri Lankan envoy said the bilateral trade between Pakistan and Sri Lanka had increased by 13 percent in 2013 at dollars 438 million compared to the previous year. It is his sincere desire that this bilateral trade be further expanded along with strengthening the ties and cooperation in other fields. For this purpose, he pledged, he would be making every possible effort.
Giving details about Pakistan and Sri Lanka trade, Herath said the balance of trade was very much in Pakistan's favour.
Pakistan's exports to Sri Lanka figured $ 361 million in 2013 and the imports were dollars 77 million. Cement, sugar, cotton and basmati rice were the main Pakistani exports to Sri Lanka while Sri Lanka exported spices particularly black pepper, betel leaf, coconut and coconut byproducts, lentils and rubber to Pakistan.
The Lankan diplomat invited Pakistani entrepreneurs and investors to invest in his country as it is one of the most attractive investment destinations in the world due to its strategic location and constitutional guarantees for foreign investment ; with Colombo being one of the most modern and important ports in South Asia. The main sectors for the investment there included agriculture, textile and information technology.
Replying to a query , he said besides offering investment opportunities Sri Lanka was is also a fantastic tourist destination.
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