Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism, Vijitha Herath, engaged in productive discussions with his Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi, during the latter’s brief visit to Sri Lanka today (January 12). The meeting focused on enhancing bilateral engagement and advancing the Strategic Cooperative Partnership between the two nations.
Both ministers reaffirmed the longstanding friendship and cooperation between Sri Lanka and China, rooted in centuries of exchanges and strengthened since the establishment of diplomatic relations seven decades ago. The discussions included enhancing partnerships in trade, investment, development cooperation, and tourism.
Minister Herath expressed deep appreciation to the Government and the people of China for their steadfast support to Sri Lanka following Cyclone Ditwah. He also requested further assistance for the second phase of resettlement, relocation, and rebuilding efforts, particularly in restoring infrastructure such as roads, railways, and bridges crucial for connectivity, economic recovery, and daily life.
Minister Wang assured China’s full support for these initiatives and expressed confidence that Sri Lanka would continue its rapid recovery under President Anura Kumara Disanayaka’s leadership. He welcomed the government’s people-centric policies and expressed optimism that Sri Lanka is on the right path toward fulfilling its people’s aspirations.
Minister Herath thanked China for its constructive role in international forums and reiterated Sri Lanka’s firm commitment to the One China Policy, emphasizing China’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The ministers also recalled successful high-level exchanges in recent years, including visits by the President and Prime Minister of Sri Lanka to China in 2025. Furthermore, Minister Herath announced that the agreement concerning the SINOPEC Oil Refinery Project in Hambantota would be finalized in the first quarter of 2026. Additionally, both sides agreed to jointly commemorate the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries in 2027.
Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China, Miao Deyu, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Sri Lanka, Qi Zhenhong, and Secretary to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism, Aruni Ranaraja, also participated in the discussions.
