Preparations underway to welcome President during visit to China: Chinese envoy

Colombo, December 18 (Daily Mirror)- Preparations are underway to warmly welcome President Anura Kumara Dissanayake during his future visit to China, Vice Chairperson of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) Qin Boyong said.

She said this during a meeting held with the President at the Parliamentary Complex today, the Presidential Media Division (PMD) said.

The President expressed his gratitude to the Chinese government for its support during the debt restructuring as well as in the face of the economic crisis. 

He stated that his appreciation extends to China’s assistance in the debt restructuring programme and its provision of loans to Sri Lanka during the economic challenges.

President Dissanayake made these remarks during a meeting with Ms. Qin Boyong, Vice Chairperson of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), held today (18) at the Parliamentary Complex.

Ms. Qin Boyong noted that China looks forward to continuing its work with the new government of Sri Lanka, further strengthening the longstanding relationship between the two countries.

The President also expressed his gratitude for China’s assistance during Sri Lanka’s disaster situations and the provision of school uniforms for children. He emphasised the continued need for China’s support in the future.

President Dissanayake highlighted the importance of completing the unfinished sections of the Central Expressway under Chinese management and expressed hopes to expedite the commencement of supply hubs and institutional projects centered around the Colombo Port City and Hambantota District.

Ms. Qin Boyong stated that there are plans to restart maritime research activities, which were temporarily halted for various reasons, along with initiating relevant projects.

Furthermore, she mentioned that Chinese companies intend to establish themselves in the Hambantota investment zone, aiming to provide Sri Lanka with better global access.