Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake on the sidelines of the 80th United Nations General Assembly, reaffirming the deep-rooted goodwill between Pakistan and Sri Lanka. The meeting highlighted the enduring friendship between the two South Asian nations and underscored their shared commitment to further strengthen bilateral ties.
Both leaders held wide-ranging discussions aimed at expanding cooperation across trade, education, culture, and defense. They stressed the importance of maintaining high-level exchanges to foster deeper understanding and ensure stronger collaboration in areas of mutual interest.
A significant part of the conversation focused on people-to-people connections. Recognizing cricket as a passion that unites both countries, Prime Minister Shehbaz and President Dissanayake emphasized the potential of enhancing sports diplomacy. They agreed to encourage more sporting exchanges, particularly in cricket, to strengthen ties beyond politics and business.
The two leaders also explored ways to boost cultural and educational partnerships. By promoting student exchanges, academic collaborations, and cultural initiatives, both sides hope to create stronger bridges between their societies. Such initiatives, they agreed, would ensure lasting bonds that extend to future generations.
Shehbaz Sharif took the opportunity to acknowledge Sri Lanka’s continued support for Pakistan in international forums. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s readiness to assist Sri Lanka in areas of common interest, while also highlighting Islamabad’s commitment to advancing regional peace and stability.
In addition, the meeting allowed both leaders to exchange views on pressing regional and global developments. Their discussions reflected a shared vision for promoting cooperation, solidarity, and resilience in the face of global challenges.
The encounter at the UN General Assembly reaffirmed the historic partnership between Pakistan and Sri Lanka while signaling a renewed commitment to strengthen it further through cooperation in trade, education, culture, defense, and sports.
