China is committed to supporting Sri Lanka’s development and strengthening bilateral ties, Chinese Ambassador to Sri Lanka Qi Zhenhong stated in a recent release, as global trade tensions intensify.
Addressing growing concerns over protectionism and unilateral tariff measures, Ambassador Qi emphasized the importance of multilateralism, economic cooperation, and a fair global trading system. He reaffirmed China’s readiness to collaborate closely with Sri Lanka to resist economic coercion and promote mutual development.
“China-Sri Lanka relations are a model of South-South cooperation,” he said. “Both nations are well-positioned to build a shared future based on mutual benefit, respect, and stability.”
Criticism of US Tariff Policies
Ambassador Qi strongly criticized the United States’ tariff actions, warning of their potential to destabilize the global economy, particularly in developing nations. He referred to the U.S. decision to impose “reciprocal tariffs” on all trading partners, including China and Sri Lanka, as a reckless move that defies market principles and undermines international trade norms.
“The U.S. has long profited from international trade, occupying the high end of the industrial chain. Meanwhile, developing countries like China and Sri Lanka have provided high-quality, low-cost goods, often under Western company brands. Weaponizing tariffs for selfish interests contradicts the very principles the U.S. once championed,” Qi noted.
He warned that such policies risk triggering global economic uncertainty and even recession, particularly harming Global South economies that rely on stable trade access.
China’s Vision for Multilateralism
Reaffirming China’s commitment to openness, Qi stated that Beijing will continue to expand high-standard opening up, promote trade and investment liberalization, and share development opportunities with global partners.
“Multilateralism is the only path to overcome global challenges. China, as the second-largest economy and market for consumer goods, will remain a firm supporter of the international trading system,” he said.
He stressed that China and Sri Lanka’s partnership, rooted in historical friendship and shared development goals, will continue to flourish. Under the guidance of Presidents Xi Jinping and Anura Kumara Dissanayake, he said the two nations will work to build a “China–Sri Lanka community with a shared future,” enhancing regional cooperation and prosperity.
