Sri Lanka-China Business Council in Hangzhou set up to boost bilateral ties

Consulate General of Sri Lanka in Shanghai in collaboration with Herbilan group established Sri Lanka-China Business Council in Hangzhou, capital of Zhejiang Province, China on 18 May. The opening day ceremony was held at Hangzhou Blossom Tao Hotel, followed by gala dinner and Sri Lanka-China joint cultural show.

The main objectives of Sri Lanka-China Business Council are as follows,

• Creating a platform for Chinese businessmen and investors based in Zhejiang Province to identify the opportunities available in Sri Lanka.
• Encouraging Zhejiang provincial investors to invest in Sri Lanka
• Providing necessary business and investment information and guidance to relevant Chinese companies/interested parties
• Creating a market for Sri Lankan exports
• Organising cultural and business events in order to promote Sri Lankan Investment, exports, tourism, etc.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Chief Guest, Dr. Sarath Amunugama, Minister for Special Assignments highlighted the significance of Sri Lanka as an investment destination for Chinese investors. Dr. Karunasena Kodituwakku, the Ambassador for Sri Lanka in China, pointed out the importance of Belt and Road initiative and Sri Lanka as the pearl of Maritime Silk Road.

At the power point presentation, LakshithaRatnayake, Consul General for Sri Lanka in Shanghai spoke on the emphasis been placed on economic diplomacy and gave a clear picture on growing investment and tourism opportunities available in Sri Lanka.

While accepting the membership of Sri Lanka China Business Council (SCBC), Sinogold Auto Group Co., Ltd. based in Hangzhou city agreed to establish its assembling plant in Sri Lanka. The memorandum of understanding (MOU) in this regard was signed between Sinogold Auto Group Co., Ltd. and Sri Lanka China Business Council at the event. After witnessing the signing of MOU, Dr. Sarath Amunugama agreed to provide a suitable land facility for Sinogold Auto Group Co., Ltd. to start its operation in Sri Lanka in due cause.

Around 400participants included Chinese politicians, officials, investors, travel agencies and the media. Twenty member dance troupe from Nilus High Heels Academy and Zhejiang Song and Dance Theatre and Zhejiang General Troupe of Folk Arts and Acrobatics sponsored by Cultural Department of the same province performed traditional Sri Lankan dances and Chinese modern dances, catching the eyes of audience. The event was actively supported by the Sri Lankan student community.