Chinese Vice Premier Wang Yang (R), also member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, meets with visiting Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Tilak Marapana in Beijing, capital of China, Nov. 1, 2017. (Xinhua/Ma Zhancheng)
Chinese Vice Premier Wang Yang met with visiting Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Tilak Marapana in Beijing Wednesday.
Wang said China highly values its relations with Sri Lanka, and regards the country as an important cooperation partner in the Belt and Road Initiative, which aims to build a trade and infrastructure network connecting Asia with Europe and Africa along the ancient Silk Road trade routes and beyond. It comprises the Silk Road Economic Belt and the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road.
This year marks the 60th anniversary of diplomatic ties between China and Sri Lanka, and the 65th anniversary of the signing of the Rubber-Rice Pact between the two countries.
Wang said China expects to cement solidarity and cooperation with developing countries including Sri Lanka.
Marapana congratulated China on the success of the 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China.
He said Sri Lanka considers China a close friend and partner, and hopes to participate in the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road, and boost cooperation in ports, infrastructure and other areas.
