China has reaffirmed its commitment to building a stronger relationship with Sri Lanka based on mutual respect, long term cooperation, and shared development. This message came from Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi during his meeting with Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath in Kuala Lumpur on July 12.
Wang, who is also a senior member of the Communist Party of China, said both countries enjoy a traditional friendship and have agreed to deepen their strategic partnership. He mentioned that the two heads of state recently had important talks and reached clear agreements on how to work together more closely in the future.
China sees itself as a reliable friend to Sri Lanka and wants to expand cooperation in various fields. Wang said that both sides should push forward with major projects such as the Colombo Port City and the Hambantota Port. He also called for quicker progress on a free trade agreement and growth in sectors like green energy, digital technology, modern farming, and marine development.
Wang stressed that China Sri Lanka maritime cooperation benefits both countries and should not be influenced by outside forces. He also warned against strategies like the Indo Pacific plan, which he said creates division and pressures countries to take sides. According to him, this approach goes against regional stability and will not gain support from Asian nations.
Minister Herath said Sri Lanka values its strong ties with China and firmly supports the one China principle. He thanked China for its support in protecting Sri Lanka’s independence and helping the country through economic difficulties. He added that Sri Lanka is ready to expand cooperation in trade, infrastructure, and regional development.
Both sides agreed to continue working together for the stability and progress of the region.
