Islamabad, 17 Oct 2023:In a significant meeting today, Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar of Pakistan sat down with President Ranil Wickremesinghe of Sri Lanka. Both leaders reminisced about the warm relations and substantial goodwill that has historically existed between their countries’ citizens. Prime Minister Kakar underscored the necessity of jointly addressing poverty and bolstering economic growth and development for the wider regional advantage. A shared sentiment for peace and increased regional connectivity also came to the fore during their interaction.

Drawing parallels to the economic challenges both nations currently face, they discussed these shared experiences in depth. One of the outcomes was an agreement for relevant authorities from both countries to maintain communication, sharing insights and best practices, especially concerning the privatization of State-Owned Enterprises. The Sri Lankan President extended his gratitude to the Prime Minister for the kind sentiments relayed on behalf of the Pakistani government and its people. The need for strengthened bilateral relations was mutually recognized, with a commitment to perpetuate cooperation in areas of shared interest.

Their conversation also gravitated towards the distressing humanitarian circumstances in Gaza due to the ongoing Israeli attacks. Both leaders jointly appealed for an immediate end to Israel’s aggressive actions, establishment of a humanitarian channel for Gaza’s trapped citizens, and the creation of a two-state solution anchored in the pre-1967 borders, designating Al-Quds Al Sharif as its capital. The press release was sourced from Press Information Department.