KARACHI
Consul General of Sri Lanka P.K. Sanjeewa Pattiwila, while underscoring the need to look beyond the existing trade basket and explore untapped sectors for collaboration, stated that the private sectors of Sri Lanka and Pakistan can particularly thrive in agri-based industries, seafood, spices, animal feed, value-added seafood, construction, and information technology.
Speaking at a meeting during his visit to the Karachi Chamber of Commerce & Industry (KCCI), Sri Lankan Envoy noted that while the balance of trade currently favors Pakistan, there exists tremendous potential for Sri Lankan entrepreneurs to explore and fully leverage the opportunities available under the FTA. “Our trade portfolio is diverse, comprising tea, coconut products, MDF boards, rubber products, and surgical goods from Sri Lanka, while Pakistan exports woven fabrics, cement, pharmaceuticals, rice, cereals, and dry fish to Sri Lanka”, he added.
President KCCI Muhammad Rehan Hanif, Senior Vice President Muhammad Raza, Vice President Muhammad Arif Lakhani, Former President Shamim Ahmed Firpo, Chairman Diplomatic Missions & Embassies and Liaison Subcommittee Ahsan Arshad Sheikh, KCCI Executive Members were also present on the occasion.
Sri Lankan CG observed that for over seven decades, relations between Sri Lanka and Pakistan have been guided by mutual respect, deep understanding, and excellent cooperation. “While our formal diplomatic relations were established 77 years ago, our historical connection goes beyond that, rooted in shared culture, religion, and traditions”, he noted.
“Our bilateral relations today remain constructive, solid, and longstanding across the political, economic, cultural, and security spheres. At every crucial juncture in history, Pakistan and Sri Lanka have stood by each other with unwavering solidarity”, he emphasized, adding that Pakistan continues to be Sri Lanka’s second-largest trading partner in the South Asian region.
Referring to tourism, he invited the people of Pakistan to select Sri Lanka as their preferred travel destination, while encouraging Sri Lankan tourists to also visit Pakistan to experience its scenic beauty and cultural richness.
Discussing Sri Lanka’s economic outlook, he stated, “The investment climate in Sri Lanka has become increasingly attractive due to a liberalized foreign investment regime, supportive government policies, strategic location, and an educated and adaptable workforce. Sri Lanka is now recognized as one of the most promising investment destinations in South Asia, with a strong and resilient economy projected for growth.”
While affirming his commitment to enhancing bilateral trade and investment through joint promotional programs, Sri Lankan CG invited business community to attend the forthcoming Economic and Investment Summit 2025, organized by the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce at Shangri-La Colombo on December 2–3, 2025, to witness how Sri Lanka is advancing its investment agenda.