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As Pakistan’s Khan takes office Sri Lanka expresses confidence in him

18 Aug, 2018

As former cricketer Imran Khan was sworn-in as the new Prime Minister of Pakistan today (Saturday), Sri Lanka said it was confident he will be able to steer?Pakistan towards peace.

President Maithripala Sirisena congratulated Khan after he took oaths today as the new Prime Minister of Pakistan.

“I am confident that your leadership will help steer Pakistan towards peace, prosperity and sustainability, as relations between our two countries grow further,” the President said.

Imran Khan was elected Prime Minister in a vote at the country’s National Assembly on Friday.

His PTI party won the most seats in July’s elections and Khan became Prime Minister with the help of small parties, the BBC reported.

His priority will be to address a financial crisis, with the economy in need of a huge bailout.

On Saturday morning, Khan was tearful and smiled as he stumbled over some of the words of his oath, led by the country’s President Mamnoon Hussain.

Members of the 1992 cricket World Cup winning team that Mr Khan captained to victory watched the ceremony alongside senior PTI figures and military officials, the BBC reported.

In a speech to parliament, 65-year-old Mr Khan reiterated his campaign promise to hold “corrupt” politicians to account, and to improve opportunities for young people. (Colombo Gazette)

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