Mar 31, Colombo: Sri Lanka President Mahinda Rajapaksa arrived in Islamabad today on a three-day visit. He was welcomed by the Pakistan Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz at the Chaklala Airbase in Rawalpindi with a red carpet treatment and a 21-gun salute.

President Rajapaksa is expected to meet the Pakistani leader Gen. Pervez Musharraf to discuss trade and defense matters. President Musharraf will host a banquet in honor of the Sri Lankan President. Official talks between the two countries will take place at the President House.

During his visit, President Rajapaksa will engage in discussions regarding tourism, education and cultural exchanges. He is expected to sign three agreements of cooperation.

Pakistan Prime Minister Aziz expressed confidence that Sri Lankan President’s visit would strengthen the Pakistan-Sri Lanka ties further in all fields.

This is Sri Lanka President’s first visit to Pakistan and second foreign trip since coming to power.