President Sirisena, chief guest at Pakistan Republic Day

President Maithripala Sirisena will left for Islamabad a while ago to attend the Pakistan Republic Day celebrations tomorrow as chief guest on an invitation extended by Pakistan President Mamnoon Hussain.

This is the first time a Sri Lankan leader received such an invitation to be the chief guest on the national day of Pakistan and it reflects the strength of bilateral friendship and ties. Pakistan gained independence on August 15, 1947 and became a republic on March 23, 1956. Since then the Republic Day is celebrated as the national day of Pakistan.

Pakistan government has made elaborate arrangements to welcome President Sirisena as the chief Guest at the national day ceremony. He will witness the National Day military parade, air display and pageant.

President Sirisena will also hold discussions with President Mamnoon Hussain and Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi during his visit to Islamabad. Two countries will also discuss economic, trade and educational relations 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.