China blasts US’ “not enough” remarks on Sri Lanka

Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning has retaliated to comments made by US Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs Victoria Nuland during her visit to Sri Lanka that terms extended by China to Sri Lanka for getting IMF debt relief are not enough.

“Rather than jabbing fingers at China’s close cooperation with Sri Lanka, the US might as well show some sincerity and actually do something to help Sri Lanka weather through the current difficulties,” Ning said responding to journalists at a regular press conference on Thursday.

“What was said by the US side does not reflect the truth. The Export-Import Bank of China has already provided Sri Lanka with the letter to express support for its debt sustainability. Sri Lanka has responded positively and thanked China for that,” she added.

 “China stands ready to work with relevant countries and international financial institutions and continue to play a positive role in helping Sri Lanka navigate the situation, easing its debt burden, and helping it achieve sustainable development,” the Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson added.

Speaking to journalists in Colombo on Wednesday, Nuland said China needs to provide more credible and specific assurances on its readiness to join other Sri Lanka creditors in meeting IMF standards on debt restructuring.

“All Sri Lanka’s major creditors have been working with the IMF. As the largest bilateral creditor, we expect China to provide credible and specific assurances regarding its readiness to join the rest of us in meeting IMF standards regarding debt restructuring,” she said.

 “The US is prepared to do our part and our Paris Club partners are ready to do their part. India has made strong commitments it will provide the credible assurances that the IMF is looking for. What China has offered so far is not enough,” added Nuland in response to questions raised by journalists.