Pakistani businessmen urged to exploit Sri Lankan market
Staff Report

ISLAMABAD—Pakistan and Sri Lanka have great potential to expand bilateral trade relations which will be supplemented by the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the two countries.
This was stated by Dr. W.B. Dorakumbure, High Commissioner of Sri Lanka to Pakistan, at a meeting with Nasir Khan President Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry here on Monday. Dr. Dorakumbure said that Sri Lanka was keen to regain its lost place in the tea market of Pakistan and added that Pakistan should also exploit the market opportunities in textiles, yarn, fabric, rice, fruits, leather, surgical and sports equipment in Sri Lanka.
He said that Pakistan could enhance its exports to European countries by opting for the trade route that passes though Sri Lanka. “FTA between Pakistan and Sri Lanka will go a long way in the promotion of bilateral trade and economic relations which will enhance the present volume of trade between the two countries,” he added.
He informed the meeting that there was no restriction on transfer of foreign exchange from Sri Lanka and added that his country had also excellent infrastructure with skilled labour and economic utility charges. He advised the Pakistani companies to participate in the construction sector of Sri Lanka through tenders which are invited from the foreign companies.
He said that Sri Lanka offers best environment to Pakistani investors for setting up hospital, build roads, power generation, distribution and other industries and services. He invited Pakistani people to visit sri Lanka and see its scenic sports and historical monuments.
High Commissioner said that Sri Lanka and Pakistan enjoy the most cordial and unbreakable relations since the days of independence which can be further strengthened through increase in bilateral trade volume, enhanced exchange of delegation and people to people contacts.