South Asian Business news and information

Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapakse just finished an official visit to Pakistan. His main goal was to improve economies ties between the two countries. The two South Asian countries have a bilateral trade of $200 million and both the countries strongly feel that this amount can be substantially increased. Pakistan and Sri Lanka signed a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) in 2005 and it has increased economic activities between the two countries. 17 Pakistani companies have invested in Sri Lanka. The two countries are seriously thinking about Sri Lanka 's proposal of setting up a dedicated GSP plus investment zone.  

 One area that the two countries have decided to promote is tourism. Both the neighbors have agreed to actively try to increase tourism traffic between them. They have also agreed to establish a joint Business Council with the aim to boost trade and economic cooperation in the private sectors.

 Pakistan recently held important discussion with India about improving economic ties. It seems that Pakistani government has decided to give economic concerns the number one priority in its foreign policy.