‘Chinese debt trap’ China welcomes SL foreign minister’s remarks

China welcomes Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Mohamed Ali Sabry’s rebuttal of the narrative of the so-called Chinese “debt trap” in Sri Lanka, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Zhao Lijian said on Monday.  

The spokesperson reiterated that China’s assistance to Sri Lanka never comes with any political strings attached, and China never seeks any selfish political gains from its investment and financing in Sri Lanka.  

“China fully relates to the difficulties and challenges faced by Sri Lanka and supports relevant financial institutions in discussing with Sri Lanka and properly resolving them. We have all along provided support to Sri Lanka’s socioeconomic development as long as our ability permits,” he said.  

Meanwhile, Foreign Minister Ali Sabry who responded to the Chinese foreign ministry spokesman said it was an encouraging statement by the Spokesperson for the Foreign Ministry of China Zhao Lijian reaffirming that China will stand with SriLanka during difficult times and help overcome the present economic challenges.  

He said it in a Twitter message.