He visited the site of the ancient Gandhara civilisation from where Buddhism spread across the globe, which is 30 kms away from Islamabad, Pakistan.

President Sirisena wrote in the visitor’s book: “I had the immense pleasure of visiting the Taxila museum. I deeply value the fine preservation of the Gandhara heritage, I have visited Taxila Museum and the ancient connection represents a relationship with my country dating back several thousand years. May this heritage and the links be a foundation for ever growing friendship between the people of Pakistan and Sri Lanka.”

The president and his delegation visited various galleries and viewed sculptures, stucco, stone, plaster and terracotta figures, ancient artifacts, coins and jewellery on display.