All efforts must be made to increase bilateral trade relations through making optimal use of PSFTA: PM Imran Khan 

ISLAMABAD, Jan 25 (SABAH): Prime Minister Imran Khan has emphasized that all efforts must be made to increase bilateral trade relations through making optimal use of the Pakistan-Sri Lanka Free Trade Agreement (PSFTA).

He was talking to Minister of Trade of Sri Lanka Dr. Bandula Gunawardhana and State Minister for Regional Cooperation, Tharaka Balasuriya, who paid a courtesy call on him in Islamabad on Tuesday.

Fondly recalling his visit to Sri Lanka last year, the Prime Minister Imran Khan reaffirmed the strong fraternal relations that exist between the two countries. Stressing on the importance of regular high-level exchanges in strengthening bilateral cooperation the Prime Minister appreciated the initiative of Dr. Gunawardhana to visit Pakistan along with a business delegation.

Referring to the strong cultural bond between Pakistan and Sri Lanka the Prime Minister invited the attention of the visiting delegation on the rich Buddhist Heritage of Pakistan, and expressed hope that more Sri Lankans will come to the country for religious tourism.

Dr. Bandula Gunawardhana thanked the Prime Minster for extending warm hospitality and goodwill towards Sri Lanka.

He expressed keen desire to expand cooperation with Pakistan in diverse areas of trade, Islamabad Capital Territory, pharmaceuticals, minerals, textiles, education, defence, tourism, human resource development through Business to Business contacts, joint ventures, investments in high potential sectors and technology transfers.

Dr. Gunawardhana and Mr Balasuriya along with a Sri Lankan Business delegation are currently visiting Pakistan.