China reaffirms defence ties with Sri Lanka at PLA anniversary reception
China has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening defence cooperation with Sri Lanka, highlighting the long-standing relationship between the two militaries during a reception marking the 99th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA).
Addressing the event, Chinese Ambassador to Sri Lanka Qi Zhenhong said military-to-military relations between the two countries were “battle-tested” and had expanded in recent years through defence consultations, personnel training, equipment support and technical exchanges.
He noted that China had provided the Sri Lankan Ministry of Defence with supplies worth RMB 10 million following Cyclone Ditwah and pledged continued efforts to build strategic trust and deepen bilateral cooperation.
“China stands ready to work with Sri Lanka to build strategic trust and continue to firmly support each other,” Ambassador Qi said.
The Ambassador also said China remains committed to a defensive national defence policy, non-alignment, non-confrontation and upholding the international order based on the United Nations Charter.
He highlighted the Chinese military’s participation in UN peacekeeping operations, anti-piracy missions, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief efforts, saying the PLA had dispatched over 50,000 peacekeepers to 26 UN missions and provided medical services to more than 400,000 people through its naval hospital ships.
Also addressing the gathering, Senior Colonel Fu Xiao said China-Sri Lanka friendship has a long history and noted that the two countries will celebrate the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations next year.
He said he had held cordial discussions with senior Sri Lankan defence officials since arriving in the country and pledged to devote his efforts to promoting “pragmatic and constructive collaboration” between the two militaries. (Newswire)
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