The High Commissioner of Pakistan in Sri Lanka, Maj Gen Qasim Qureshi visited the Northern Province of Sri Lanka from September 16 to 18, the High Commission said today.
 
The aim of the visit was to understand the ground situation and explore opportunities to expand the economic, cultural and people-to-people links between Pakistan and the Northern Province.
 
The High Commissioner also reviewed the progress of the development projects being sponsored by the Government of Pakistan in the Northern Province. These projects include expansion and up-gradation of Al-Aksha Maha Vidyalam( School) in Salam Baikulam Vavuniya. The Government Pakistan is undertaking the uplift of this school with the collaboration of the Sri Lankan Government through the good offices of Hon Minister Basil Rajapaksha and Hon Minister Rishad Badiuddin.
 
The High Commissioner also met the Government Agent Mr. Sundram Arumaing Yagam and Deputy Election Commissioner Jaffna, Mr. Achuthan They exchanged views on the preparation for the upcoming election and the election system being followed by Pakistan. Five observers from Pakistan have also arrived to observe the elections.
 
The High Commissioner also met the President of Jaffna Chamber of Commerce & Industry Mr R. J. Sekran, who briefed the High Commissioner about the prevailing business environment in the Northern Province. Mr. Sekran suggested a more comprehensive engagement with the business community of Jaffna after the election to explore business opportunities between the two countries.
 
During the visit, H.E Qasim Qureshi also met the Commander Security Forces of Jaffna Maj Gen Mahinda Hathrusinghe, at Security Forces Head Quarters.