Zardari Zealous!

Tuesday, 30 November 2010 00:18 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

* Pakistani President wraps up visit on high note

* Stronger relations, US$ 200 million credit facility, more investment opportunities and expertise exchange among visit results

By Uditha Jayasinghe

Hitting a high note in bi-lateral relations between the two countries, Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari yesterday wrapped up his official visit to Sri Lanka on a bright note combining trade, investment and security partnerships.

He pledged strong support to Sri Lanka while addressing a business forum in his last speech, insisting that the synergies of the two countries could be used for mutual development. During his visit the president signed several memorandums of understanding with various stakeholders and held discussions with President Rajapaksa on establishing a barter system with the assistance of a US$ 200 credit facility.

“The barter system is good because we don’t become a dollar burden on each other. Pakistanis help with the utmost sincerity because we want to be around for a long time. In the next 10 years Pakistan companies should come and invest in Sri Lanka. Profits should not be repatriated but rather invested in Sri Lanka for growth. Capital repatriation is possible. I want to discuss this in detail with the finance teams of both countries so that we can come up with a formula to help Sri Lanka further.”

Zardari addressing the business forum insisted that he can put himself in the shoes of Sri Lanka and understand the suffering felt under terrorism and war. “The effects will last for decades to come. I appreciate and congratulate the victory you have had. At the same time one has to see where the future lies. When I look at Sri Lanka I think, the sky is the limit. You are the gateway to millions of people; so how can we support you and have a situation where we can help you and ourselves at the same time.”

He noted that Pakistan has large reserves of steel and cement for infrastructure. Support on these fronts as well as security aspects were suggested by him. A return of knowledge was considered by him where counter terrorism and industry were considered for better relations between the two countries.

He urged both nations to evolve themselves to become more useful to each other and take their place in the vibrant democracies of the world. Several rounds of discussions were held between the Pakistani president’s delegation and local ministers, BOI officials, parliament speaker and commerce chambers.