The High Commission of Sri Lanka in Pakistan hosted a grand reception to commemorate the 77th Independence Day of Sri Lanka at Serena Hotel in Islamabad. The event was graced by Federal Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development, Chaudhry Salik Hussain, who also holds the portfolio of the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, attending the ceremony as the Chief Guest. The guest was warmly welcomed by Acting High Commissioner of Sri Lanka in Islamabad, A. Christy Ruban and the staff of the High Commission, accompanied by a bagpipe band from the Pakistan Navy.
Extending warm congratulations on behalf of Pakistan, Minister Hussain emphasized the strong historical and economic ties between the two countries. He highlighted Sri Lanka’s status as Pakistan’s second-largest trading partner in South Asia and reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening economic cooperation under the Free Trade Agreement.
He also referred to the close defence collaboration between the two countries, Pakistan’s role in Sri Lanka’s human resource development through scholarships, and the shared cultural and religious heritage: particularly Pakistan’s custodianship of the Gandhara Civilization and Buddhist relics.
Recognizing Sri Lanka’s key role in reviving international cricket in Pakistan, he expressed gratitude for the strong people-to-people connections between the two countries.
Acting High Commissioner A. Christy Ruban delivered an inspiring speech, highlighting Sri Lanka’s journey since gaining independence on 04 February 1948. He reflected on the nation's 2500-year history, including 443 years of colonial rule, and acknowledged the resilience and strength of the Sri Lankan people in overcoming challenges and building a path toward progress.
The Acting High Commissioner also emphasized Sri Lanka’s achievements in education and healthcare, noting that despite economic and social challenges, the country has maintained strong social indicators comparable to the developed world. Moreover, he shed light on the launch of the “Clean Sri Lanka” project, a visionary initiative introduced by the President of Sri Lanka. The project aims to address environmental challenges and promote sustainable development, built on the principles of Environmental, Social, Governance, and Economic Sustainability (EESG).
Sri Lanka’s longstanding relations with Pakistan were also a key focus of the speech. The Acting High Commissioner acknowledged the deep-rooted friendship between the two countries, which has strengthened over decades through mutual respect, cooperation, and solidarity in political, economic, cultural, and security matters. He expressed appreciation for Pakistan’s unwavering support during Sri Lanka’s post-conflict period, reaffirming the commitment to further enhancing bilateral ties.
The event brought together diplomats, dignitaries, senior officials from Pakistan’s three armed services, and members of the Sri Lankan community, reflecting the enduring bond between the two countries.
A raffle was drawn at the occasion, and winners were awarded round-trip tickets to visit Sri Lanka by Sri Lankan Airlines.
Concluding his remarks, the Acting High Commissioner extended his heartfelt congratulations to Sri Lankan nationals residing in Pakistan, urging them to uphold the values of freedom, equality, and justice as they celebrate this momentous occasion. “Long live Sri Lanka-Pakistan relations,” he added, reinforcing the spirit of camaraderie and shared aspirations between the two nations.
High Commission of Sri Lanka
Islamabad
06 February 2025
