President's visit to mark Sino-Lanka ties Golden Jubilee

Manjula Fernando

COLOMBO: President Mahinda Rajapaksa will hold bilateral talks with Chinese President Hu Jintao during a State visit scheduled later this month, concurrent to 50th anniversary of China-Sri Lanka diplomatic relations.

Sri Lanka and China forged diplomatic ties on February 7, 1957 under the late S.W.R.D. Bandaranaike regime.

During the visit seen as important to both countries in terms of boosting economic relations, the two leaders will sign nine bilateral agreements on mutually agreed projects, covering Trade, Economy, Culture and Education, a spokesman for the Foreign Ministry said.

President Rajapaksa will address several investment seminars attended by top level Chinese investors to brief them on the investment climate here during this predominantly business oriented call.

Chinese ambassador for Sri Lanka Ye Dabo said: "The forthcoming visit will become another important milestone in our bi-lateral relations.

The two countries have increasingly enhanced mutual political trust, deepened cooperation in economy and trade, and strengthened coordination in international affairs."

The year 2007 has been declared as the year of China-Sri Lanka friendship. The two countries have organised a line-up of programmes to commemorate the Golden Jubilee of the diplomatic ties the two countries have enjoyed in the past.

A commemorative stamp will be issued in this connection. A Sri Lankan Gem and Jewellery show, a trade fair, exchange of cultural performances, paintings, photographic and poster exhibitions, exchange of visits by the media and religious groups are also on the cards.