In a meeting with Sri Lankan Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena, Chinese President Xi Jinping reiterated China’s unwavering support for Sri Lanka’s political and socio-economic advancement. Emphasizing mutual respect and cooperation, President Xi pledged to stand by Sri Lanka in safeguarding its territorial integrity and sovereignty. Both leaders affirmed their commitment to the principles of friendship, peace, and non-interference in internal affairs.
President Xi assured continuous support for Sri Lanka’s development projects and highlighted the importance of bilateral relations based on mutual respect and productivity. Expressing willingness to support Sri Lanka’s development schemes, President Xi invoked the spirit of the Rubber-Rice Pact to enhance cooperation in various sectors.
The meeting follows the signing of nine new agreements between China and Sri Lanka aimed at bolstering economic ties and infrastructure development. President Xi’s assurances come amidst Sri Lanka’s efforts to restructure its economy and address its debt challenges, with China being its largest bilateral lender. The commitment from China underscores the significance of the bilateral relationship and China’s role in Sri Lanka’s development trajectory.