(UTV | COLOMBO) – The High Commissioner met Venerable Uduwe Dhammaloka Thero, the Chief Incumbent of the Alan Mathiniyaramaya at his temple in Kirulapona and wished him on his birthday. Both also cut a cake to celebrate the occasion.
Later on, both discussed the historic relations between Pakistan and Sri Lanka and ways to further strengthen people-to-people contacts. They also underscored the importance of interfaith harmony and pluralism especially in multi-ethnic and multi-religious countries like Sri Lanka. The High Commissioner apprised him of the proposed Buddhist Heritage Trail of the Government of Pakistan which was well-appreciated by the Venerable Thero. They also spoke about the precious relics of Lord Buddha preserved in Pakistan which are a source of great reverence for Buddhists. Both stressed on the need for these relics and Gandhara Buddhist heritage sites to be made more accessible to Sri Lankan pilgrims through regular visit of Sri Lankan pilgrims to Pakistan.
The High Commissioner also visited the Nagananda International Buddhist University in Kelaniya and met the Executive Director, Venerable Dr. Bodagama Chandima. Both spoke of the Knowledge Corridor between Sri Lanka and Pakistan including the fully funded Allama Iqbal Scholarships being offered by the Government of Pakistan to Sri Lankan students. Ven. Dr. Chandima showed his keen interest in the scholarship program as well as other training programs being offered by Pakistan. The High Commissioner greatly appreciated the University and underscored the need for the educational institutes of Pakistan and Sri Lanka to maintain close academic linkages.
