Xi calls for fair, transparent environment for investment in Sri Lanka

Colombo, April 11 (Daily Mirror) - Chinese President Xi Jinping , in his recent meeting with Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena, has reportedly stressed the need for ‘fair and transparent’ environment for Chinese companies to invest in Sri Lanka.

The Chinese leader had further mentioned that China is not happy about its friends being influenced by other countries unnecessarily when taking decisions.

However , in the meeting which a top source mentioned as friendly and cordial , the Chinese President did not refer to any third country in his remarks.

The Prime Minister recently undertook a tour of China between March March 25 and 30 to attend the Boao Forum for Asia (BFA) Annual Conference 2024.

He held bilateral discussions during the visit .

Meanwhile , during a separate meeting, Chinese Prime Minister Li Qiang has raised concerns about Sri Lanka announcing a moratorium on foreign research vessels in its Exclusive Economic Zone (ECZ) targeting Chinese ships while entertaining a similar vessel from Germany in between.

Mr. Gunawardena has reportedly responded saying Sri Lanka allowed the German vessel only for replenishment . He said Sri Lanka could not decline such requests for replenishment according to the law.

He also said Sri Lanka would not allow any country to use its territory against the interests of any country.