President Dr. Arif Alvi conferred Nishan-i-Imtiaz (Military) upon Admiral Ravindra Chandrasiri Wijegunaratne Chief of Defence Staff Sri Lankan Armed Forces in a special Investiture ceremony held at Aiwan-e-Sadr, Islamabad on Wednesday. Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee General Zubair Mahmood Hayat NI(M) and senior officers were also present in the ceremony. Later, Admiral Ravindra Chandrasiri Wijegunaratne Chief of Defence Staff Sri Lankan Armed Forces also called on President Dr. Arif Alvi. Speaking on the occasion, the President emphasized that Pakistan attaches great importance to its relations with Sri Lanka which have stood the test of time. He added that bilateral relations between the two countries have always been marked by mutual respect, understanding and close cooperation. The President underscored that Pakistan considers Sri Lanka an important regional country, contributing significantly towards regional and global peace. He stated that cooperation in the field of defence is an important aspect of our multi-faceted relationship. The President highlighted that Pakistan has been a partner of Sri Lankan Armed Forces for enhancing their capacity by providing large number of vacancies in its institutions. He appreciated Sri Lankan Navy’s participation in AMAN-2019 with assets and observers. The President underlined that future connectivity of Gwadar, Karachi, Colombo and Hambantota ports will ensure enhanced regional connectivity and unprecedented economic activities. He further said that Pakistan is home to Buddhist Civilization and heritage and the Government has taken a number of initiatives to promote cultural and tourism cooperation with Sri Lanka. Admiral Ravindra Chandrasiri Wijegunaratne Chief of Defence Staff Sri Lankan Armed Forces thanked the President and the Government of Pakistan on being awarded with NI (M) and hoped that bilateral relations between the two brotherly countries would further grow in future. ***** ?
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