China and Sri Lanka have signed an agreement to implement a Chinese-funded project to reconstruct 14 major bridges damaged by Cyclone Ditwah, which caused widespread destruction across the country late last year.
The agreement was signed at the Ministry of Transport, Highways and Urban Development in Colombo in the presence of Chinese Ambassador to Sri Lanka Wei Huaxiang and Ministry Secretary Asiri Karunawardana.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Ambassador Wei said China had expedited the approval process for the reconstruction project following a request from the Sri Lankan Government.
He said a team of Chinese experts had been sent to Sri Lanka to assess the damage and conduct field inspections as part of preparations for the project.
Ambassador Wei said China would work closely with Sri Lankan authorities on the implementation and management of the project, with a focus on ensuring long-term and tangible benefits for the people of Sri Lanka.
Expressing appreciation for the Chinese Government’s assistance, Ministry Secretary Asiri Karunawardana said the project would help address transportation difficulties caused by the disaster while also contributing to the development of Sri Lanka’s transport infrastructure.
Cyclone Ditwah, which affected Sri Lanka from late November to early December 2025, caused extensive damage across the country and claimed more than 600 lives.
The disaster is estimated to have caused approximately US$4.1 billion in economic and infrastructure damage.
