Zardari set to visit Sri Lanka

Nov 27, 2010 |

Colombo

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Bilateral defence and economic cooperation is expected to figure prominently in talks between Sri Lankan leaders and Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari, who is set to arrive here on his maiden visit to the country.

Mr Zardari, who will pay a four-day visit to the island nation beginning on Saturday, will become the first head of state to call on President Mahinda Rajapaksa after the Sri Lankan assumed duties for his second six-year term.

The Pakistani delegation will include defence minister Ahmed Mukthar, foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi and business representatives, local newspapers reported.

Defence and economic cooperation between Sri Lanka and Pakistan is likely to be the key subject of discussions during Mr Zaradari's visit.

"This will include discussions on expanding the free trade agreement into a comprehensive economic partnership, joint ventures, establishment of an investment bank and a proposed defence pact," 'The Island' reported.

Mr Zardari and Mr Rajapaksa are scheduled to hold bilateral talks tomorrow, officials said.

Mr Zaradari will also preside over the Sri Lanka-Pakistan Business Forum, the Pakistani high commission here said.

Besides, he is scheduled to hold several meetings with government and opposition representatives.

The Pakistani President will also meet members of Sri Lanka-Pakistan Parliamentary Friendship Association during his visit.

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