Premier Gunawardena hails China’s transformative role in global economy 

Prime Minister  Dinesh Gunawardena

Speaking at 7th China-South Asia Expo in Kunming emphasises potential for tourism growth in SL-China 

Appreciates China’s unwavering support for Sri Lanka during challenging times

Calls for improved Govt. and private sector involvement in trade and investments to boost economic growth in SL

 Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena commended China’s significant contribution to reshaping the international economic landscape during his speech at the 7th China-South Asia Exhibition in Kunming.  

Addressing a gathering of representatives from over 60 countries participating in the trade exhibition, including South and Southeast Asian nations as well as members of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Cooperation (RCEP), he praised China’s leadership under President Xi Jinping and the Communist Party for their transformational impact on the region’s development and achieving remarkable economic growth.  

Prime Minister Gunawardena also emphasised the shared potential for tourism growth between the two countries and echoed President Xi Jinping’s vision of a future characterised by global betterment.   Recalling the historical ties between the two nations dating back centuries, Premier Gunawardena emphasised the mutual respect and cooperation that have characterized China-Sri Lanka relations.

He reaffirmed Sri Lanka’s commitment to the ‘One China Policy’ across all spheres and appreciated China’s unwavering support for Sri Lanka during challenging times. 

 The Prime Minister also highlighted recent Chinese development projects in Sri Lanka, including the Hambantota Port, Hambantota Industrial Zone, Mattala Airport, and the Colombo Port City. Stressing on the strategic importance of these investments for Sri Lanka’s economic growth he called for increased Government and private sector involvement in trade and investment. 

He expressed gratitude for the invitation to attend as the Chief Guest, underscoring the longstanding friendship between China and Sri Lanka. Prime Minister Gunawardena also acknowledged the strength of the friendship between China and Sri Lanka, describing it as a “Kalyana Mitra” - a deep and lasting bond that transcends both good and difficult times.   The event was attended by dignitaries from various countries, including Vice Presidents and Ministers from Indonesia, Myanmar, Nepal, and Vietnam, as well as high-ranking officials and representatives from around the world.

 The expo titled ‘Cooperation and Coordination for Development’ is scheduled to run till 20 August featuring 15 exhibition halls, showcasing diverse sectors such as biomedicine, healthcare, resource economics, and regional cooperation, encompassing an expansive 150,000 square meters of space.