China expresses readiness to collaborate with Sri Lanka towards a new era of development

President Anura Kumara Disanayake, currently on a four-day state visit to China, held an official meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping this afternoon (15) at the Great Hall of the People.

Upon President Disanayake’s arrival at the Great Hall, he was received by President Xi Jinping. He was welcomed with a  ceremonial gun salute.

Following the initial cordial discussions between the two leaders, bilateral talks commenced.

During the discussions, President Xi Jinping emphasized China’s readiness to work closely with Sri Lanka in ushering in a new era of development.

He also recalled the longstanding relationship between the two countries, highlighting the close friendship that has existed for decades. President Xi reiterated China’s commitment to continuing its cooperation with Sri Lanka in the future.

Upon concluding the official meeting, both sides proceeded to sign several key MoUs aimed at strengthening collaboration in areas such as economy, social development, and industry.

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment, and Tourism Vijitha Herath, Minister of Transport, Highways, Ports, and Civil Aviation Bimal Rathnayake, and Director General of the Government Information Department H.S.K.J. Bandara were also part of the delegationaccompanying President Disanayake.

Earlier, President Disanayake visited the exhibition hall on the history of the Communist Party of China today (15).

He also visited the historic Prince Kung’s Palace Museum in China.

Later, he paid his respects by offering flowers at the Mao Zedong Memorial, dedicated tothe founding leader of the People’s  Republic of China.

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment, and Tourism, Vijitha Herath, and Minister of Transport, Highways, Ports, and Civil Aviation, Bimal Rathnayake, also participated in these events.