Pakistan today hailed Sri Lanka’s efforts in tackling terrorism, saying there was a “marked difference” in the country in its post-conflict phase of development.
Jalil Abaas Jilani, visiting Pakistani foreign secretary, made the comments during his meeting with President Mahinda Rajapaksa this morning.
Jilani told the President that “there is a marked difference” in Sri Lanka from when he last visited during the war in 2005, the president’s office said.
“There is peace and tranquillity one feels,” Jilani said.
“We deeply appreciate and admire the manner in which your government has been able to take care of terrorism”, he told Rajapaksa.
Pakistan had last month voted against a US-sponsored resolution on Sri Lanka’s human rights record which was adopted in the 47-nation strong UNHRC.
Rajapaksa noted with appreciation Pakistan’s support both during and after the war, stating that Islamabad played a crucial role in assisting Sri Lanka during decisive times.
Jilani is on a 3-day visit to Colombo to take part in the third round of bilateral consultations.