Sept 30, Colombo: Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena says that China-Sri Lanka friendship is expected to be further developed to gain strength for the prosperity of the people of Sri Lanka as well as global unity

Prime Minister Gunawardena said China has been a Kalyana Mitra, a very special friend for Sri Lanka.

“Kalyana Mitra is a friend who is with you in your times of happiness as well your times of sorrow,” the Premier said in his speech at the 73rd Anniversary of Chinese National Day celebrations organized by China Sri Lanka Friendship Associations in Colombo yesterday (September 28).

“The Rice Rubber pact greatly enhanced trade, aid, & investments to expand upon a platform of mutual cooperation and friendship. And was furthered through diplomatic relations respecting Sri Lanka’s independence, sovereignty, safeguarding of Unitary State, territorial integrity, & Buddhism,” he said.

The Prime Minister pointed out that China has successfully eradicated poverty of 900 million human beings under its unique economic policy and set a great example to the world the way it adopted a practical economic model.

“China emerged strong in the path of Socialism with Chinese Characteristics and a new era of development began with the birth of the People’s Republic of China,” he said.

Premier Gunawardena recalled President Xi Jinping’s comment that China and Sri Lanka should be praised for setting an example of friendly coexistence and mutually beneficial cooperation between countries.

Non-Aligned foreign policy of the Progressive MEP Government of 1956 established formal diplomatic relations between Sri Lanka and China in 1957, and this stands out as an historic occasion as this year we celebrate the 65th anniversary of China-Sri Lanka diplomatic relations, he said.

As of today, China has laid the foundation to become a global giant changing the international balance of power. Its speedy and balanced progress in political, socio-economic, poverty alleviation, cultural, scientific, technological, environment, research, and space spheres deserves our esteemed respect, the Prime Minister said.

Ambassador Qi Zhenhong and Sri Lanka China friendship association representatives also spoke at the ceremony.