Shaheer Ahmed
Whenever we talk of money, we assume Pakistan has again asked for a loan. Let’s face it we are known to borrow more and lend less. But now the tables have turned, we are borrowing and lending not at the same rates but kar tou rahay hain na. Hum ne dekha Sri Lanka ko madad chahiye bass pohnch gaye hum apna bara dil aur khuli jaib lay kay. Pakistan made the headlines of neemopani as Pakistan is going to lend Sri Lanka $200 million – tension nahien leni paisay bohat hain hamaray paas.
Pakistan and Sri Lanka share fairly stable relations. This is not the first time Pakistan and Sri Lanka have cooperated to promote the bilateral relationship. Although, Sri Lanka has relatively good relations with India but is trying to maintain good relations with Pakistan as well. Yeh tou bohat khatarnaak hai boss. Toofan mai kashtian chalana koi in sei seekhay. However, on many accounts, we have witnessed Pak- Sri Lanka collaboration.
Last year Pakistan offered a $50 million credit line purchase for defense purposes. Moreover, to promote cultural exchange between the two countries, Pakistan offered 100 new scholarships for Sri Lankan people wishing to study in Pakistan’s medical and dental schools. Not only this both countries are in talks to extend religious diplomacy as well. In 2016, Pakistan- Sri Lanka signed a defense agreement. Under this agreement, Pakistan provided eight JF-17 fighter aircraft to Sri Lanka.These goodwill gestures from both countries, exhibit peaceful vibes which are necessary for South Asia in contemporary times.
To take the bilateral ties to new extents Pakistan is now going to lend Sri Lanka a credit line of $ 200 million. Sri Lanka will use this money to buy basmati rice, cement, and medicines as imports from Pakistan. Sajith Attygall, Secretary to the Treasury of Sri Lanka, broke the news that Islamabad has agreed to lend Colombo the decided credit line of purchase. Amid cement shortage in Sri Lanka, this collaboration will help it suffice the needs of the state and control the price hikes too.
Pakistan though not one of the great powers, still is a great power. Its greatness comes into play whenever a country is in need. Pakistan never backs down from extending any sort of help to other nations. This shows Pakistan exists to establish peace and prosperity.
