President Sirisena arrives in Islamabad

Pakistan President Mamnoon Hussain welcomed President Maithripala Sirisena upon his arrival at the Nur Khan Air Base in Islamabad, Pakistan last evening. 

President Sirisena will be the Chief Guest at Pakistan’s National Day celebrations scheduled for today. He will witness the National Day military parade and air show. This is the first time a Sri Lankan leader has received an invitation to be the Chief Guest of the National Day of Pakistan and it reflects the strength of the two countries’ bilateral friendship. President Sirisena will also attend the opening of the International Buddhist Center in Islamabad. Pakistan gained independence on 15 August 1947 and became a republic on 23 March 1956. Since then Republic Day has been celebrated as the National Day of Pakistan.

President Sirisena will also hold discussions with President Mamnoon Hussain and Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi today. 

The discussions are expected to cover economic, trade, investment, management, education and training cooperation between the two countries. Pakistan and Sri Lanka will sign four agreements related to foreign service training, education and tourism during the President’s visit.