During a bilateral discussion with Sri Lankan Premier Dinesh Gunawardana in Beijing, President Xi Jinping conveyed China’s unwavering support to Sri Lanka, along with the backing of the EXIM Bank of China and China Development Bank, as disclosed by State Minister of Finance Shehan Semasinghe.
Semasinghe further revealed in a post on ‘X’ (formerly Twitter) that China intends to continue positive engagements with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to bolster economic stability and restore debt sustainability in Sri Lanka.
Accompanying Prime Minister Gunawardana during his five-day state visit to China, Semasinghe emphasized that Sri Lanka appreciates China’s continuous support.
The Sri Lankan Prime Minister, during his call on President Xi Jinping on Wednesday, conducted discussions at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. The leaders agreed to uphold principles of friendship, peace, mutual respect, and non-interference in internal affairs, as stated by the PM’s Office in a recent statement.
Both leaders stressed the importance of bilateral relations founded on mutual respect and productivity, setting a positive example for both nations.
President Xi assured ongoing support for Sri Lanka’s political and socioeconomic advancement, reaffirming China’s commitment to safeguarding Sri Lanka’s independence, territorial integrity, and sovereignty.
Expressing gratitude for the historical support from the Gunawardena family to China, President Xi expressed hope for increased cooperation between the Sri Lankan Prime Minister’s party and the Chinese Communist Party.
Prime Minister Gunawardana extended gratitude to President Xi for China’s assistance during economic crises and for facilitating debt restructuring. He also highlighted progress in implementing decisions made during President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s visit to China.
Additionally, the Sri Lankan Prime Minister thanked President Xi for support across various sectors, including education, agriculture, health, technology, culture, and religion.
Accompanying Prime Minister Gunawardana were Finance State Minister Shehan Semasinghe, Home Affairs State Minister Ashoka Priyantha, MP Yadamini Gunawardena, Chinese Ambassador to Sri Lanka Qi Zhenhong, and Prime Minister’s Secretary Anura Dissanayake.
