Secretary Defence calls on Chinese Defense Minister

The Secretary Defence and Urban Development Mr. Gotabaya Rajapaksa, who is on an official visit to China paid a courtesy call to State Councilor and Minister of National Defence of the People’s Republic of China (PRC) General Liang Guanglie on 11th November 2012.

Secretary Defence was warmly welcomed by the Chinese Defence Minister. A cordial discussion was held between the visiting Secretary Defence and Chinese Defence Minister on matters of bilateral importance mutual interests between the two friendly states. Secretary Defence greatly appreciated the valued assistance and cooperation extended by China in times of great need. It is significant to note the warm welcome the Secretary Defence was accorded by China. General Guanglie took time from his busy schedule especially during the time when the Communist Party of China is holding its 18th National Congress, to meet the Secretary Defence. It underlines the strong bilateral ties between the two countries.

Secretary Defence is in China to attend the 9th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition at the southern city of Zhuhai. Defence equipment including China’s new attack helicopter and fighter jets will be exhibited at the exposition.

General Liang Guanglie visited Sri Lanka leading a high powered delegation on an official visit in late August this year. He was the first Chinese Defence Minister to visit Sri Lanka. During the visit with his high powered delegation, he visited a number of military establishments including the Defence Services College and the Panagoda Army Cantonment. China has extensively rendered its assistance towards the development of the country.

During the meeting mementos were exchanged between Chinese Defence Minister and Secretary Defence as a gesture of goodwill and friendship.