Lasting bonds of friendship with Pakistan - President

(September 12, Colombo, Sri Lanka Guardian) "Sri Lanka and Pakistan share lasting bonds of friendship and a strong commitment to achieve peace and prosperity. We shall continue our work together to enhance our bilateral relations as well as forge regional cooperation through SAARC. We join with you in the resolution to eradicate terrorism from our region," states President Mahinda Rajapaksa in a message of congratulations to the new Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari.

The President's message reads:

"It is with immense pleasure that I extended my warmest congratulations to you on your election as President of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan. The government and the people of Sri Lanka join me in extending felicitations to you.

"Your appointment is a manifestation of the confidence and trust placed in you by your party and the people of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan. You bring to your high office vast experience and wisdom gained over a long political career. I am confident that your Excellency's leadership will steer Pakistan and its people to higher levels of development and prosperity.

"Sri Lanka and Pakistan share lasting bonds of friendship and a strong commitment to achieve peace and prosperity. We shall continue our work together to enhance our bilateral relations as well as forge regional cooperation through SAARC. We join with you in the resolution to eradicate terrorism from our region.

I am confident that under Your Excellency's leadership, the existing bilateral relations between our two countries will be further consolidated and strengthened. I look forward to working closely with Your Excellency to promote cooperation for peace and development in our region, for the welfare or our peoples.

Accept, Excellency the assurance of my highest consideration and my best wishes for your good health and personal well being. - Sri Lanka Guardian