ISLAMABAD: Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Muhammad Zakaullah, during his visit to Sri Lanka, held meetings with the president, prime minister and military leadership of the friendly country and discussed with them steps to maintain peace in the region, particularly the Indian Ocean.

On an official visit to Sri Lanka, Admiral Zakaullah called on the president of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka, Maithripala Sirisena, Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, State Minister of Defence Dinendra Ruwan Wijewardene and Secretary to Ministry of Defence Eng Karunasena Hettiarachchi in separate meetings, a press release issued on Wednesday said.

During the meetings with the president and prime minister, matters of mutual interests came under discussion.

Admiral Zakaullah highlighted Pakistan Navy`s efforts in pursuance of Pakistan government`s policies to maintain peace and security in the Indian Ocean region in collaboration with international community.

The admiral reiterated Pakistan`s continued support to Sri Lankan armed forces in the field of training, provision of technical manpower and expertise.

The Sri Lankan president and prime minister acknowledged Pakistan Navy`s strenuous efforts for maintaining maritime security in the region and expressed satisfaction over the historical bonds and defence collaboration between the two countries in various avenues, including training, reciprocal visits, port calls and exercises.

They said Sri Lanka looked forward to increasing ties in defence and other areas of mutualinterest.

The dignitaries highly lauded Pakistan Navy`s support and assistance to Sri Lankan people during the recent devastating floods.

-APP