Islamabad, 30 September 2024 () : A three-member delegation from the National Federation of Journalists (NFJ) paid a visit to the High Commission of Sri Lanka in Islamabad and met with Admiral (R) Ravindra C. Wijegunaratne, the High Commissioner of Sri Lanka. The delegation, comprising Senior Vice President Aamir Rafiq Butt, Secretary General Abid Siddique Chaudhry, and Joint Secretary Adnan Hameed, engaged in discussions focused on media collaboration and fostering stronger ties between journalists from both countries.
The High Commissioner warmly welcomed the NFJ delegation and expressed his commitment to strengthening cooperation between Sri Lankan and Pakistani media communities. He praised the long-standing relationship between the two nations, stating, “Sri Lanka and Pakistan have been steadfast allies, always standing by each other during difficult times. The people of Sri Lanka deeply value the support we have consistently received from Pakistan, and the love shared between the people of both countries is immense.”
During the conversation, the High Commissioner emphasised the cultural and sporting ties between Sri Lanka and Pakistan, particularly through cricket, noting the significance of the upcoming Champions Trophy, where teams from Sri Lanka, Pakistan, and India will compete. “This event will be a celebration of our strong sporting bonds, with global attention on the tournament,” he added.
Responding to a question from NFJ Secretary General Abid Siddique Chaudhry regarding the Muslim population in Sri Lanka, Admiral Wijegunaratne informed that Muslims constitute 11% of Sri Lanka’s total population of 22 million people. He highlighted the peaceful coexistence of various religious communities in Sri Lanka and the important role the Muslim community plays in the country’s social and economic fabric.
Further answering a query about air connectivity between the two nations, the High Commissioner noted that Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) currently does not operate flights to Colombo. However, Sri Lanka Airlines offers regular flights from Lahore to Colombo. He emphasised the need to enhance these air routes to promote greater tourism and business exchanges between Pakistan and Sri Lanka.
The High Commissioner also expressed his views on the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), noting its significant importance to Pakistan’s economy and its potential benefits for the broader region. He remarked, “The CPEC project is not only a game-changer for Pakistan’s economic development but will also prove fruitful for the entire region by promoting infrastructure, trade, and connectivity.”
During the meeting, the NFJ delegation was also informed about the restoration of Sri Lanka’s online visa service, which had been suspended for a few months due to technical reasons. Despite the suspension, special accommodations were made for 120 Pakistani travellers, allowing them to receive visas on arrival. The High Commissioner reiterated Sri Lanka’s eagerness to welcome more Pakistani tourists and strengthen people-to-people connections.
In addition, the NFJ delegation took note of Admiral Wijegunaratne’s distinguished career and his honour as the only Sri Lankan to have received the prestigious Nishan-e-Imtiaz award from the Government of Pakistan. This recognition further underscores the close bond between the two nations.
Earlier in the meeting, NFJ Senior Vice President Aamir Rafiq Butt introduced the delegation and briefed the High Commissioner on the federation’s role and mission to connect journalists across borders. He emphasised the need for future journalist exchanges and collaborative media projects between Sri Lanka and Pakistan.
On this occasion, the NFJ delegation presented a shield to the Sri Lankan High Commissioner, while the High Commissioner gifted a book to the members of the delegation.
The meeting concluded with mutual appreciation for the longstanding friendship between the two countries and a shared commitment to further enhancing media collaboration.
