Embodiment to enduring friendship between our two nations
The Sri Lanka – China Friendship Association while welcoming the historic State visit of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake to the People’s Republic of China said that the visit is not just a diplomatic milestone but a testament to the enduring friendship between our two nations.
The Association’s President Ananda Goonatilleke said that the President’s Dissanayake’s State visit was marked by a landmark meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing and represented a pivotal moment in the enduring friendship and cooperation between our two nations.
Excerpts from the release: President Dissanayake’s visit underscores Sri Lanka’s commitment to fostering robust ties with China, a partner that has consistently supported Sri Lanka’s developmental aspirations. This engagement serves as a reaffirmation of the deep-rooted bond that began with the signing of the historic Rubber-Rice Pact in 1952 and was further strengthened by the establishment of formal diplomatic ties in 1957.
Sri Lanka, emerging from economic challenges, views this visit as an opportunity to reset and rejuvenate its relationship with China. With flagship Chinese projects such as the Hambantota Port and Colombo Port City already in place, Sri Lanka is uniquely positioned to play a pivotal role in China’s Belt and Road Initiative. By streamlining regulations, expediting the Hambantota Economic Zone, and fostering a transparent business environment, Sri Lanka aims to attract Chinese investments and position itself as a strategic hub in the region.
China, as the world’s largest outbound tourism market, presents immense opportunities for Sri Lanka’s tourism sector. Prior to the pandemic, Chinese tourists were the largest contingent of visitors to Sri Lanka. By launching targeted promotional campaigns, Sri Lanka can tap into this vast market and reinvigorate its tourism industry, thereby creating jobs and driving economic growth.
As global supply chains evolve, Sri Lanka’s strategic location and existing infrastructure provide an enticing proposition for Chinese businesses seeking to expand beyond their borders.
The Sri Lanka-China Friendship Association believes that this visit marks a new chapter in bilateral relations. It provides a platform for both nations to deepen their partnership, rooted in shared history, mutual respect and a commitment to sustainable development.
As President Dissanayake leads Sri Lanka with a vision for inclusive growth and foreign policy autonomy, we are confident that this visit will result in tangible outcomes that benefit both nations. Together, Sri Lanka and China can unlock a future of shared prosperity, leveraging each other’s strengths to build a resilient and interconnected global community.
We extend our gratitude to the leadership of China for their warm hospitality and unwavering support. This visit is not just a diplomatic milestone but a testament to the enduring friendship between our two nations. We look forward to a future of stronger ties, greater cooperation, and shared progress.
The post Embodiment to enduring friendship between our two nations appeared first on DailyNews.