Sri Lankan President Dissanayake to visit China mid-January
The Hindu
Sri Lankan President announces official tour to China amid commitment to Belt and Road Initiative, despite international concerns.
Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake on Saturday (December 21, 2024) announced plans for an official tour to China in mid-January, following his recent visit to India.
Mr. Dissanayake's announcement came days after he and Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya met with Qin Boyong, Vice-Chairwoman of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) here on Tuesday and Wednesday, and reaffirmed the island nation's commitment to advancing high-quality development under China's multi-billion dollar Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
“I will be going to China in mid-January,” Mr. Dissanayake told reporters in Kandy, a central district town.
Mr. Dissanayake's visit to India last week marked his first overseas trip since assuming the presidency on September 21.
Upon his return to Colombo, a senior Chinese official met with President Dissanayake, confirming that preparations for his upcoming visit to Beijing were underway.
China has expressed its continued support for Sri Lanka. Mr. Dissanayake has expressed gratitude to China for its support to restructure its international debt.
BRI is a mega connectivity project that connects China with Southeast Asia, Central Asia, Russia and Europe.
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