At the invitation of H.E. Xi Jinping, President of the People’s Republic of China, H.E. Anura Kumara Disanayaka, President of Sri Lanka, undertook a state visit to China from January 14 to 17, 2025.
During his visit, President Disanayaka engaged in discussions with President Xi Jinping and met with Premier Li Qiang and Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress, Zhao Leji. In a cordial atmosphere, the leaders exchanged in-depth views, agreeing to enhance bilateral relations through deepening traditional friendship, advancing high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, and fostering practical multi-sectoral collaborations between China and Sri Lanka.
Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to the principles of mutual respect, trust, and cooperation, built on the 68-year history of diplomatic ties between the two nations. The discussions highlighted the importance of continuing high-level exchanges and collaboration in areas such as governance, development, and international issues of shared interest.
Both countries also reaffirmed their strong mutual support on key issues such as sovereignty, with Sri Lanka expressing its commitment to the One-China Policy, emphasizing that Taiwan is an inalienable part of China. Sri Lanka also affirmed its support for China’s efforts towards national reunification and its stance on Xinjiang and Tibet. In turn, China reiterated its commitment to supporting Sri Lanka in safeguarding its sovereignty and choosing its own development path.
The two sides celebrated the progress of their Belt and Road cooperation, particularly through projects like the Colombo Port City and Hambantota Port. Both nations agreed to enhance their high-quality cooperation with a focus on sustainable development, people-centered benefits, and the realization of President Xi Jinping’s vision for high-standard collaboration.
China also pledged continued support for Sri Lanka’s financial stability, notably in debt restructuring, while Sri Lanka expressed appreciation for China’s help in managing its financial challenges. The two countries renewed their currency swap agreement and committed to advancing trade and economic relations, including the exploration of a free trade agreement.
Further cooperation was discussed in areas such as agriculture, green development, digital economy, disaster management, and climate change. China offered to assist Sri Lanka with technological support and capacity-building in agriculture, with a particular focus on bio-technologies, and expressed interest in expanding Sri Lanka’s exports to China, particularly tea, fruits, and cinnamon.
On climate change, both sides recognized the shared challenges it presents and agreed to collaborate on disaster prevention, mitigation, and emergency management. They also agreed to work together on the U.N. 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.
In the realm of maritime cooperation, both nations committed to enhancing their partnership in environmental protection, maritime security, and personnel training. Education and cultural exchanges were also a focal point, with plans to expand scholarship opportunities and promote Chinese language education in Sri Lanka.
The two sides acknowledged the potential for increased tourism exchanges and cooperation in sectors such as youth, sports, media, and the arts. President Disanayaka extended an invitation to Chinese leadership to visit Sri Lanka, and the two sides agreed to maintain communication through diplomatic channels.
At the conclusion of the visit, several cooperation documents were signed, covering agriculture, tourism, livelihood assistance, media, and other sectors.
President Disanayaka expressed his gratitude for the hospitality extended by China and reiterated his invitation for a reciprocal visit. The Chinese leadership warmly accepted the invitation, and both sides agreed to continue fostering strong bilateral relations.
