Pakistan's Inter Provincial Coordination (IPC) minister Mian Riaz Hussain Pirzada on Saturday (11) said that if Sri Lankan cricket team tours Pakistan, they would be accorded memorable welcome and would be given red box security.

Speaking to Pakistan local media Riaz further stated that Sri Lankans always stand by Pakistan through thick and thin. Pakistanis are very grateful to Sri Lanka, he added.

The minister termed Sri Lanka as his second home and described as Pakistan's very close friends and said he was rooting for Sri Lanka alongside Pakistan in the World Cup.

“Despite attack on their cricket team in the unfortunate Lahore incident, they never turn their backs on Pakistan. We salute their gesture and will never forget their brotherly treatment rendered to Pakistan in all the sporting fields.” He said.

With superb efforts by Pakistan Army after operation Zarb-e-Azb, things are quite different and security situation is far better. Therefore Pakistan would initiate best possible measures to ensure no repeat of Lahore incident, Riaz elaborated.

He also expressed views on Zimbabwe Cricket Team’s will to tour Pakistan and said it was not only great positive sign but also showed that international teams trust current government.

(With inputs from The Nation - Pakistan)