PM Shehbaz, Sri Lankan president discuss Pakistan-India match and cricket ties

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held a telephone conversation with Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, during which the two leaders discussed bilateral relations and longstanding cricket cooperation between the two countries.

During the call, the Sri Lankan President requested that the Pakistani cricket team play the upcoming Pakistan-India T20 World Cup match proposed to be held in Sri Lanka. He recalled that Pakistan had fully supported Sri Lankan cricket during difficult times when terrorism affected Sri Lanka.

President Dissanayake said Pakistan had always given priority to its historic ties with Sri Lanka and continued to tour the country for cricket despite security challenges.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif welcomed the sentiments expressed by the Sri Lankan President and highlighted that Sri Lanka had also extended full support to Pakistan during its challenging periods. He noted that cricket activities in Pakistan continued with Sri Lanka’s cooperation.

The prime minister also appreciated the recent step taken by the Sri Lankan team in not cancelling its tour of Pakistan, calling it an unforgettable gesture for the Pakistani nation and cricket fans.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif requested the Sri Lankan president to inform him of the final decision after consultations regarding the Pakistan-India T20 World Cup match.