Soon after returning from his maiden visit to India, President Anura Kumara Dissanayake held a meeting with a high-profile Chinese political delegate. The Vice Chairperson of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), Ms. Qin Boyong, who is currently visiting Sri Lanka, met the President at the Parliamentary Complex just hours after his arrival.
During the meeting, President Dissanayake expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the Chinese government for its support during Sri Lanka’s debt restructuring and economic crisis. He acknowledged China’s significant contributions to the debt restructuring program and its provision of loans during challenging economic times.
Ms. Qin Boyong conveyed China’s willingness to continue collaborating with the new Sri Lankan government, aiming to strengthen the longstanding relationship between the two nations.
The President also thanked China for its assistance during natural disasters and its support in providing school uniforms for Sri Lankan children. He emphasized the importance of ongoing Chinese support in addressing future challenges.
President Dissanayake further highlighted the need to complete the unfinished sections of the Central Expressway under Chinese management. He expressed optimism about expediting the launch of supply hubs and institutional projects centered around the Colombo Port City and Hambantota District.
Ms. Qin Boyong revealed plans to restart maritime research activities, which were previously suspended for various reasons, alongside the initiation of other related projects.
Additionally, she noted that Chinese companies are planning to establish a presence in the Hambantota investment zone, aiming to enhance Sri Lanka’s global trade access. She also shared that preparations are underway to warmly welcome President Dissanayake during his future visit to China.
The meeting was attended by several dignitaries, including Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment, and Tourism Minister Vijitha Herath, Deputy Speaker Dr. Rizvie Salih, and Mr. Ma Youxiang, a committee member of the CPPCC, among others.
