Pakistan wants peace in South Asia

LAHORE:Punjab Governor Saleem Haider has underscored the need to enhance existing bilateral cooperation between Pakistan and Sri Lankan.

A Sri Lankan delegation led by Vidura Wickramanayaka, Minister of Buddhadasna Religious and Cultural Affairs, called on the governor at Governor House here on Sunday. In the meeting, issues of mutual interest, ways to enhance cooperation in economic, tourism and other sectors between the two countries were discussed.

Speaking on the occasion, governor said that Pakistan and Sri Lanka have cordial relations. He underscored the need to enhance existing bilateral cooperation between the two countries. The governor said that Pakistan is committed to extending cultural ties with Sri Lanka. He said the government has preserved ancient Buddhist relics in the historical places Taxila, Takht Bahi and Swat Valley. He said that the Buddhist monuments in Pakistan provide opportunities to increase religious tourism between Pakistan and Sri Lanka.

He said that there is a need to explore new avenues of cooperation between Pakistan and Sri Lanka in the economic and tourism sectors and ensure sustainable development in the region.

He said, 'We invite Sri Lanka to explore the possibilities of joint ventures in tourism and hospitality sectors and to invest in the tourism sector. Pakistan is committed to promoting peace and cooperation in South Asia.'

The head of the delegation said that he is taking away pleasant memories from here. He praised the hospitality of Pakistanis and especially the liveliness of the people of Lahore. Later, Governor Sardar Saleem Haider met a delegation of All Pakistan Private Schools Management Association led by All Pakistan Private Schools Management Association President Kashif Adeeb Jadwani and Malik Riasat at Governor’s House. Speaking on the occasion, the governor said that the role of private sector in the promotion of education is commendable and the government is encouraging the private sector at all levels. He said that private schools are sharing burden of government in education sector.

He said, “We have a large number of male and female students studying in private schools. Measures are being taken to provide facilities in government schools and to upgrade them so that the government and the private sector can better fulfill the duty of nurturing the new generation.”