Sri Lanka and China share a longstanding friendship that spans over two 2,000 years. This bilateral relationship is characterised by a rich historical legacy and a promising future that both nations can take pride in, representing a connection that has endured through the ages.
Shortly after the establishment of the People’s Republic of China, Sri Lanka was among the first countries to recognise it in 1950, subsequently formalising diplomatic relations in 1957. In the same year, Premier Zhou Enlai visited Sri Lanka, and the then Prime Minister Sirimavo Bandaranaike made a significant visit to China in 1961, followed by key high-level exchanges.
Over the last 67 years, Sri Lanka and China have developed a partnership characterised by cooperative and mutually advantageous interactions across various sectors. Sri Lanka has embraced the one-China policy, while China has consistently provided support to Sri Lanka in numerous multilateral platforms.
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, who embarked on a state visit to China at the invitation of Chinese President Xi Jinping, arrived at Beijing International Airport on Tuesday.
Upon his arrival, the President was accorded a ceremonial welcome by the Chinese military, and he was formally received by China’s Deputy Foreign Minister Chen Xiaodong.
The route taken by President Dissanayake was elegantly decorated on both sides with the national flags of both nations, symbolising mutual respect and diplomacy.
President Dissanayake visited the historic Prince Kung’s Palace Museum in China. Later, he paid his respects by placing floral wreath at the Mao Zedong Memorial, dedicated to the founding leader of the People’s Republic of China.
President Dissanayake held an official meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping yesterday afternoon (15) at the Great Hall of the People.
Upon President Dissanayake’s arrival at the Great Hall, he was warmly received by President Xi. The welcoming ceremony was conducted with great honour, including a ceremonial gun salute.
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