Sri Lanka and China have reinforced their long-standing relationship through an extensive agreement to deepen their traditional friendship and enhance high-quality collaboration under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). The two nations also emphasized their commitment to mutual cooperation across various sectors and addressed key regional and international concerns.
China reaffirmed its unwavering support for Sri Lanka’s sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity. It also expressed its respect for Sri Lanka’s right to independently determine its development path in alignment with its unique national circumstances. The joint statement, issued during Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s state visit to China, emphasized China’s adherence to an independent foreign policy of peace.
In turn, Sri Lanka reiterated its dedication to a non-aligned foreign policy and extended its backing for China’s efforts toward national reunification. The Sri Lankan government firmly opposed “Taiwan independence” in any form and pledged that its territory would not be used for any anti-China or separatist activities. Furthermore, Sri Lanka reaffirmed its support for China’s positions on issues related to Xizang (Tibet) and Xinjiang.
The two countries agreed to strengthen maritime cooperation based on mutual trust and benefit. This collaboration will span areas such as marine conservation, disaster relief, maritime personnel training, and environmental restoration. Both sides expressed interest in signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Ocean Cooperation to advance a “Blue Partnership” that promotes a shared maritime future.
In the field of education, China committed to encouraging Sri Lankan students to pursue higher studies in Chinese institutions, with continued support through government scholarships. Sri Lanka expressed gratitude for China’s contributions, including assistance with the digital classroom project, and pledged to enhance teacher, student, and researcher exchanges.
Additionally, both countries will continue to develop the China-Sri Lanka Joint Center for Education and Research under the Chinese Academy of Sciences, fostering deeper collaboration in science, technology, and research.
Judicial, law enforcement, and security cooperation were also identified as critical aspects of the bilateral relationship. Both nations pledged to work together to combat cross-border crimes, including online gambling and telecom fraud. China also offered support for enhancing Sri Lanka’s judicial and law enforcement capacities by providing training and resources.
During the visit, several cooperation agreements were signed, covering agriculture, tourism, livelihood support, media, and other areas. Both governments underscored the importance of these agreements in strengthening their partnership and enhancing the well-being of their citizens.
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake expressed gratitude to the Chinese government and people for their warm hospitality during the visit. He extended an invitation to Chinese leaders to visit Sri Lanka, which was warmly received. Both sides agreed to maintain diplomatic communication to foster continued collaboration.
This state visit has further solidified the foundation for Sri Lanka and China’s relationship, ensuring ongoing cooperation and mutual benefit across diverse sectors in the years to come.
