RAWALPINDI: Pakistan and Sri Lanka share deep historical, cultural and trade ties, Sri Lankan High Commissioner Vice Admiral Mohan Wijewickrama said while addressing members of the business community, during his visit to Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI).

“The volume of bilateral trade between the two countries, which is currently close to $450million, could be increased to $2billion,” he said, adding trade relations could be further strengthened in many areas as there is a huge potential for developing partnerships in trade, investment and industry within various sectors including textiles, construction materials, agro processing, pharmaceuticals, gems and jewellery, tourism and education.

RCCI President Nasir Mirza, Senior Vice President Usman Ashraf, Vice President Shahraiz A Malik, former Senior Vice President Nosherawan Khalil Khan and Secretary General Irfan Manan Khan were also present on the occasion.

The envoy appreciated efforts of the chamber in promoting trade activities and said that Sri Lanka had participated in the Virtual Rawal Expo in August 2020 which was a unique event. He also discussed preferential, free trade agreements and tariff issues.

Mr Mirza briefed the high commissioner about ongoing activities and future programmes of RCCI.

He said there are many opportunities for cooperation between the two countries in various fields, especially construction, tourism, education, gems and jewellery, marble and pharma. Bilateral relations can be further strengthened through exchange of trade delegations, he suggested.

He also invited Mr Wijewickrama to attend the Rawal International Expo 2021. Education Expo, Build Expo, Gems and Jewellery Expo have also been planned wherein Sri Lankan traders, institutions and companies will be provided maximum support along with facilities to promote their products, he added.

Published in Dawn, December 20th, 2020