Sri Lanka, known as the \"Pearl of the Indian Ocean,\" has made significant strides in healing the wounds of its civil war over the past decade. A crucial partner in this journey has been China, which has extended unwavering support, contributing to the nation's post-war reconstruction and recovery from the 2022 economic crisis.
In a recent edition of Leaders Talk, CMG's Zou Yun sat down with Sri Lankan Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena during his official visit to China. The Prime Minister's agenda included meeting with Chinese leaders and attending the Boao Forum for Asia 2024 Annual Conference, a gathering that underscores the growing collaboration between the two nations.
Prime Minister Gunawardena highlighted the enduring friendship between Sri Lanka and China, tracing back to the spirit of the 1952 Rubber-Rice Pact. He emphasized the \"original intention\" behind their cooperation, focusing on mutual growth and shared prosperity.
Looking ahead, Sri Lanka aims to deepen its cooperation with China in key sectors such as agriculture and fisheries. Prime Minister Gunawardena expressed a strong desire to learn from China's extensive experience and notable achievements in these fields, signaling a commitment to sustainable and innovative development.
Furthermore, Gunawardena remarked on the pivotal role of Belt and Road Initiative projects, including Hambantota Port and Colombo Port City, in driving Sri Lanka's development and modernization efforts. These infrastructure projects are expected to enhance economic growth, create jobs, and position Sri Lanka as a significant player in the region.
As Sri Lanka continues to forge strong ties with China, the partnership exemplifies a model of international cooperation, blending historical ties with modern-day strategic initiatives aimed at fostering long-term prosperity for both nations.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
