Colombo: Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has expressed his gratitude to Pakistan for its support during challenging times. In a post on X handle, President Dissanayake highlighted his meeting with Pakistan's Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Minister for Overseas Pakistanis Chaudhry Salik Hussain, emphasizing their reaffirmation of the enduring friendship between the two nations.

According to Radio Pakistan, the Interior Minister briefed the Sri Lankan President about the challenges faced by Pakistani citizens in acquiring visas. In response, President Dissanayake promptly ordered the removal of Pakistan from all restrictive lists and announced an impending visit by Sri Lanka's Prime Minister to Pakistan. The President reiterated his commitment to further strengthening bilateral relations with Pakistan.

President Dissanayake extended his special thanks to Pakistan for participating in the T20 World Cup match against India in Colombo, commending Pakistan's spirit of goodwill. The meeting also included detailed discussions on issues related to counter-terrorism, anti-narcotics, and joint training of forces.

Mohsin Naqvi lauded the Sri Lankan President's efforts in enhancing Pak-Sri Lanka relations and conveyed an invitation from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for President Dissanayake to visit Pakistan. Naqvi also expressed gratitude for the excellent arrangements and hospitality extended to the Pakistani delegation during the T20 World Cup.