China’s special representative at MRIA launch:

Mattala symbol of close Sino-Lanka friendship

Dharma Sri Abeyratne

Special representative of the Republic of China Luo Fuhe yesterday said China is ready to further boost Sri Lanka’s economic and social progress. Addressing the inauguration of the country’s second international airport, Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (MRIA), Chinese Political Consultative Conference Vice President Luo Fuhe said China always respects the sovereignty and social and economic well-being of other nations.

He said China encourages its entrepreneurs and the business community to invest in Sri Lanka. China partners with Sri Lanka to promote infrastructure and the energy sector in Sri Lanka.

Fuhe reiterated that the MRIA is a symbol of close friendship between Sri Lanka and China.

He noted that peace has dawned in Sri Lanka with end of terrorism under the guidance of President Mahinda Rajapaksa. He added that the country is stable and is heading on the path of development under the dynamic leadership of President Rajapaksa.

“China and Sri Lanka are traditional and trusted friends who have been close to each other for centuries through the Silk route”.

He said Sri Lanka is the first country that recognized the People’s Republic of China in 1950 and the ties between the two countries were further strengthened with the Rubber-Rice Pact in 1952.

China is working towards strengthening ties with Sri Lanka in many fields including culture, education, economic and trade.

“The Chinese new government has given instructions to further strengthen the ties between the two nations and the new Chinese President exchanged views with his Sri Lankan counterpart recently, he said.

He added that China always respects the sovereignty and independence of other nations.