ISLAMABAD: Envoys-designate of Iran, Sri Lanka and Cuba presented their credentials to President Mamnoon Hussain at a ceremony held at the Aiwan-i-Sadr on Thursday.

Earlier, each envoy-designate arrived at the main gate of the Aiwan-i-Sadr on a horse-driven carriage.

National anthems of Pakistan and the three countries were played and the diplomats were presented a guard of honour.

Later, the three called on the president separately.

President Hussain said that Pakistan was desirous of promoting friendly and brotherly relations with all countries, particularly with its neighbours, for promoting peace, stability and prosperity in the region.

He said Pakistan offered great investment opportunities, adding that international investors should take advantage of the investor-friendly policies of the government of Pakistan. About Islamabad’s efforts against terrorism, he said Pakistan had rendered immense sacrifices in the war against terrorism. He said Operation Zarb-i-Azb was progressing successfully and it would continue till the elimination of the last terrorist.

The president felicitated the newly-appointed ambassadors and high commissioner and expressed the hope that they would work for cementing existing ties of their countries with Pakistan. The president wished the envoys a comfortable and pleasant stay in Pakistan.

Those who presented their credentials were Gabriel Tiel Capote, Ambassador of Cuba; Mehdi Honordoust, Ambassador of Iran; and Maj Gen Loku Katagodage Jayanth Chandrasiri Perera, the High Commissioner of Sri Lanka.

Published in Dawn, January 1st, 2016