ISLAMABAD: Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar and Sri Lanka’s Deputy Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Sugath Thilakaratne met on Thursday to reinforce sports cooperation, highlighting the pivotal role of games in fostering connections between people and deepening mutual understanding between the two countries.
Discussions centered on enhancing cricket, exploring collaboration across various sporting disciplines, and solidifying bilateral relations. Minister Attaullah Tarar emphasized that Pakistan and Sri Lanka enjoy a relationship based on trust, respect, and shared values.
Tarar underlined the unifying potential of sports for the younger generation while serving as an effective bridge for strengthening the friendship between the nations. He expressed appreciation for Sri Lanka’s leadership in promoting sports collaboration and stressed Pakistan’s efforts to advance regional sports diplomacy.
The minister noted that the visit of Sri Lanka’s Deputy Minister, despite the ongoing budget session in the Sri Lankan Parliament, is a testament to the enduring friendship and mutual trust between the two countries. He voiced optimism that this visit would open new avenues for bilateral cooperation, particularly in sports and youth development.
Acknowledging Pakistan’s hospitality and its commitment to sports diplomacy, the Sri Lankan delegation praised Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi for ensuring excellent arrangements for the Tri-Nation Cricket Series. Additionally, they appreciated Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s warm gesture at a luncheon honoring the participating teams.
The delegation confirmed their attendance at the Tri-Nation Series matches in Pakistan while commending Pakistan’s dedication to advancing regional sports initiatives.
Sri Lanka’s High Commissioner to Pakistan Rear Admiral Fred Seneviratne, alongside Deputy High Commissioner Christie Ruben and Minister Counsellor (Defence) Brigadier G.A.K.R. Gunaratne, participated in the meeting, reflecting the robust diplomatic and defence ties between both countries.
