Karachi: Members of Pakistan-Sri Lanka Business Forum (PSBF) in a Business to Business assembly held at a local hotel highlighted the importance of business-friendly environment between the two countries, said a statement here on Friday.

Addressing the meeting, Dr. Bandula Gunawardana, Minister of Trade Sri Lanka addressing the participants said that it is the need of the hour to boost level of bilateral trade between Pakistan and Sri Lanka by creating a conducive and healthy business environment as both countries are encountering unprecedented challenges.

“Collective efforts and the wisdom of the political leadership between both the countries will take the businesses to new heights”, he said.

Majyd Aziz, founding Chairman PSLBF said that both countries should continue to be strong proponents of peace in the region, both should adopt each other’s causes for peace and stability.

He called for a revisit of the Pakistani-Sri Lankan Free Trade Agreement because the bilateral trade is less than $500 million.

He also suggested the setting up of Ceylon Tea House to promote Sri Lankan tea.

Both sides were of the view that every possible effort should be taken to get optimum advantage of our economic and manpower potential in order to give boost to economies.

Aslam Pakhali, President PSLBF, in his welcome address offered the service of PSLBF for those Sri Lankan businessmen who are interested in trade with Afghanistan and Central Asia through Pakistan.