Sri Lanka and China affirmed friendship

Peiris highlighted the above during his meeting with Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi, who paid a short official visit to Colombo to celebrate the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations, the Daily News reported.

Sri Lanka’s foreign minister declared that whenever his country encounters difficulties, China’s support is complete.

In this context, he expressed his gratitude to the visitor for China’s support for the national vaccination campaign to combat the COVID-19 pandemic, including the donation of three million vaccine doses.

In addition, the timely financial assistance from China during the current economic situation in Sri Lanka, which has strengthened the friendship and mutual trust between the two countries.

During the talks, other issues of bilateral interest were discussed, such as supporting the ongoing vaccination program, attracting Chinese investment to the coastal city of Colombo and the Hambantota industrial zone, and increasing Chinese tourism to Sri Lanka.

Also, improve Sri Lankan exports to China and enhance cultural cooperation, particularly in strengthening Buddhist relations between the two countries.

A Chinese state councilor and foreign minister said his country regards Sri Lanka as an old friend.

He also thanked the issuance of a commemorative coin last year to celebrate the centenary of the Communist Party of China and highlighted the strong and continuous support of both countries in various international fora over the years.

After the talks, the two delegations signed various economic and technical cooperation agreements. A subsidized housing project in Colombo and a collaborative project for mobile vehicles to screen for kidney disease.

jha / abm