March 28, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lankan Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena, currently undertaking a state visit to China, convened with President Xi Jinping on Wednesday (27) at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing.
During their deliberations, both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to fostering bilateral relations grounded in principles of friendship, peace, mutual respect, and non-interference in internal affairs—an approach consistent with the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence.
The importance of nurturing mutual respect and productivity between the two nations was underscored, with the understanding that such cooperation serves as a model for constructive engagement on the international stage.
President Xi reiterated China’s steadfast support for Sri Lanka’s endeavours toward political and socioeconomic advancement, emphasising China’s unwavering stance in safeguarding Sri Lanka’s independence, territorial integrity, and sovereignty.
Expressing gratitude for the historical ties between their families, President Xi acknowledged the support extended by Prime Minister Gunawardena’s father, Philip Gunawardena, to China.
He noted the mutual desire of the Sri Lankan Prime Minister’s party and other political entities in Sri Lanka to deepen collaboration with the Chinese Communist Party.
In turn, Prime Minister Gunawardena expressed appreciation for China’s assistance during Sri Lanka’s recent economic challenges and its provision of debt restructuring facilities.
He provided an update on the progress made in implementing agreements reached during President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s previous visit to China.
The Prime Minister also extended gratitude to President Xi for China’s support across various sectors, including education, agriculture, health, technology, culture, and religion.
Accompanying Prime Minister Gunawardena 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.
