China and Sri Lanka have taken significant steps to strengthen their strategic cooperative partnership during Sri Lankan Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena’s official visit to China from March 25 to 30, 2024. The two nations issued a joint statement on Friday, highlighting their commitment to deepen cooperation across various sectors, including economic development, infrastructure, agriculture, education, and cultural exchange.
Prime Minister Gunawardena attended the Boao Forum for Asia Annual Conference 2024 and met with Chinese President Xi Jinping, Premier Li Qiang, and Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress, Zhao Leji. In these meetings, both sides engaged in extensive discussions on bilateral relations and regional and international issues of mutual interest.
Strengthening Bilateral Relations
The joint statement emphasized the long-standing friendship between the peoples of China and Sri Lanka, dating back 67 years since the establishment of diplomatic ties. Both countries agreed to carry forward the spirit of independence, self-reliance, solidarity, and mutual assistance, aiming to cement and expand their strategic cooperative partnership based on sincere mutual assistance and ever-lasting friendship.
Economic Cooperation and the Belt and Road Initiative
China and Sri Lanka pledged to deepen high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, accelerating the formulation of a cooperation plan and advancing key projects such as the Colombo Port City and the integrated development of Hambantota Port. Sri Lanka welcomed increased investment from Chinese enterprises and committed to providing a favorable business environment and preferential policies to facilitate these signature projects.
The two sides expressed satisfaction with the progress of bilateral economic and trade cooperation. China agreed to support Sri Lankan enterprises, particularly in the tea industry, to establish ties with Chinese importers and exporters. Both countries will work towards the early conclusion of a comprehensive free trade agreement based on equality and mutual benefit.
Support for Financial Stability
Sri Lanka appreciated China’s support in addressing its financial difficulties, including the proposed bilateral debt settlement plan. China expressed readiness to continue supporting its financial institutions in consulting with Sri Lanka, maintaining friendly communication with other creditors, and playing a positive role in the International Monetary Fund to help Sri Lanka achieve debt sustainability.
Agricultural and Educational Collaboration
The two nations agreed to enhance cooperation in agriculture, including agritech exchange and training, to help Sri Lanka increase rice yield, farmers’ income, and boost rural development. China will support projects like the China-Sri Lanka friendship hybrid rice demonstration park and promote imports of quality agricultural products from Sri Lanka.
In education, both countries expressed readiness to further exchanges among teachers, students, and researchers. They will work together to ensure the sound development of the China-Sri Lanka Joint Center of Science and Education and strengthen cooperation in fields such as disaster prevention, maritime research, and climate change.
Cultural and People-to-People Exchanges
China and Sri Lanka will deepen cooperation on cultural heritage under the Alliance for Cultural Heritage in Asia. China will assist Sri Lanka in the authentication and restoration of ancient Chinese artifacts brought to Sri Lanka by Admiral Zheng He. Both countries aim to encourage tourism by promoting travel, enhancing aviation connectivity, and leveraging cultural centers.
Commitment to Multilateralism
The joint statement highlighted both countries’ commitment to building an equal and orderly multi-polar world and practicing true multilateralism. They called for defending the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and promoting inclusivity in international relations. Sri Lanka reiterated its firm support for China’s Global Development Initiative, Global Security Initiative, and Global Civilization Initiative.
Conclusion
Prime Minister Gunawardena expressed appreciation for China’s warm hospitality and invited Chinese leaders to visit Sri Lanka. Both sides agreed to maintain communication and continue to advance their strategic cooperative partnership for the mutual benefit of their peoples.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
