The Sri Lankan High Commission in Pakistan organized a grand reception in Islamabad to celebrate Sri Lanka’s 77th Independence Day in Islamabad. The event was honored by the presence of Hon. Chaudhry Salik Hussain, Federal Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development, who also oversees the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, serving as the Chief Guest.
This moment of unity was followed by the ceremonial lighting of the traditional lamp by the acting High Commissioner of Sri Lanka, along with the Chief Guest and other eminent dignitaries, symbolizing enlightenment and solidarity.
Extending warm congratulations on behalf of Pakistan, Chief Guest Minister Hussain emphasized the strong historical and economic ties between the two nations. He highlighted Sri Lanka’s status as Pakistan’s second-largest trading partner in South Asia and reiterated the commitment to strengthening economic cooperation under the Free Trade Agreement.
He also spoke about the close defense collaboration, Pakistan’s role in Sri Lanka’s human resource development through scholarships, and the shared cultural and religious heritage—particularly Pakistan’s custodianship of the Gandhara Civilization and Buddhist relics.
Acknowledging the role of sports diplomacy, Minister Salik appreciated Sri Lanka’s contribution to reviving international cricket in Pakistan, particularly their national team’s tour in 2019.
Christy Ruban, Acting High Commissioner of Sri Lanka delivered an inspiring address, highlighting Sri Lanka’s journey since gaining independence on February 4, 1948. He reflected on the nation’s 2,500-year history, including 443 years of colonial rule, and acknowledged the resilience and strength of the Sri Lankan people in overcoming challenges and building a path toward progress.
The High Commissioner emphasized Sri Lanka’s achievements in education and healthcare, noting that despite economic and social challenges, the country has maintained strong social indicators comparable to the developed world. He also shed light on the launch of the ‘Clean Sri Lanka’ Project on January 1, 2025, a visionary initiative introduced by the President of Sri Lanka. The project aims to address environmental challenges and promote sustainable development, built on the principles of Environmental, Social, Governance, and Economic Sustainability (EESG).
Sri Lanka’s longstanding relations with Pakistan were also a key focus of the speech. The High Commissioner acknowledged the deep-rooted friendship between the two nations, which has strengthened over the decades through mutual respect, cooperation, and solidarity in political, economic, cultural, and security matters. He expressed appreciation for Pakistan’s unwavering support during Sri Lanka’s post-conflict period, reaffirming the commitment to further enhancing bilateral ties.
The gathering united diplomats, high-ranking officials from Pakistan’s three armed forces, esteemed dignitaries, and members of the Sri Lankan community, showcasing the deep and lasting ties between the two nations.
A lucky draw, sponsored by SriLankan Airlines, was held at the reception, where two fortunate winners received tickets to travel to Colombo.
Earlier, A commemorative cake, adorned with the national flags of Sri Lanka and Pakistan, was cut by Acting High Commissioner Christy Ruban, along with Chief Guest Minister Chaudhry Salik Hussain, Dean of the Diplomatic Corps Atadjan Molamov, the Ambassador of Bangladesh, the Acting Ambassador of Maldives, Yasin Joiya (Honorary Consul General of Sri Lanka for Lahore), and Sri Lanka’s Defence Advisor Brigadier Silva.
In his concluding remarks, Christy Ruban warmly congratulated Sri Lankan nationals living in Pakistan, encouraging them to embrace the principles of freedom, equality, and justice while celebrating this significant occasion.
“Long live Sri Lanka-Pakistan relations,” he declared, reinforcing the spirit of camaraderie and shared aspirations between the two nations.
News Editor’s Personal Experience:
I have been attending the reception of the Sri Lankan High Commission for the past 14 years, but this time, it was distinctly different from previous years. This year, the emphasis was on strengthening people-to-people connectivity between Pakistan and Sri Lanka, with a particular focus on education.
