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Musharraf discusses bilateral ties with Lankan President
ISLAMABAD : President Pervez Musharraf and Sri Lankan President Chandrika Kumaratunga discussed in Islamabad on Tuesday ways to enhance bilateral relations.
They also exchanged views on regional issues including matters related to South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation.
The two leaders held a one on one meeting at the Aiwan-e-Sadr, where President Musharraf warmly received the visiting leader.
Welcoming the Sri Lankan President, General Pervez Musharraf said the two countries enjoy excellent relations marked by cooperation in political and economic fields.
President Pervez Musharraf said there is an upward trend din various areas of bilateral cooperation and a Free Trade Agreement between the two countries will open a new chapter of increased trade to their mutual benefit.
The Sri Lankan President reciprocated President's remarks and said Colombo greatly values its friendship with Pakistan, a key country in the region, which has been playing an important role in fostering close cooperation among South Asian nations.
President Kumaratunga appreciated Pakistan's assistance to her country in the aftermath of Tsunami disaster.
President Pervez Musharraf said the Pakistani nation stood with Sri Lanka in their hour of difficulty and the people of Pakistan joined the government in its efforts to provide relief to the disaster-hit island.
Pakistan sent medical and engineering task forces to Sri Lanka, which set up field hospital and repaired infrastructure.
In the context of South Asian forum the SAARC, the two leaders agreed to work for promoting cooperation among the member states. Later, senior aides joined the two leaders at the formal talks.