PM Dinesh says China is Sri Lanka’s ‘Kalyana Mitra’

 Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena in conversation with China’s Ambassador Qi Zhenhong at the 73rd Anniversary of Chinese National Day celebrations organised by China Sri Lanka Friendship Associations on Wednesday

• Identifies China as true decisive global leader with its leadership and assistance towards prosperity of all nations

Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena on Wednesday identified China as Sri Lanka’s “Kalyana Mitra” and a “true decisive global leader” changing the international balance of power especially with its leadership and assistance towards prosperity of all nations.

The glowing tribute was made by the Prime Minister during his address at the 73rd Anniversary of Chinese National Day celebrations organised by China Sri Lanka Friendship Associations.

“China has laid the foundation to become a global giant changing the international balance of power. Its speedy and balanced progress in political, socio-economic, poverty alleviation, cultural, scientific, technological, environment, research and space spheres deserves our esteemed respect.

“China is a true decisive global leader, especially with its leadership and assistance in Asia, Africa, and Latin America and towards the prosperity of all nations,” Gunawardena said.He recalled that President Xi Jingping recently said that China and Sri Lanka should be praised for setting an example of friendly coexistence and mutually beneficial cooperation between countries.

“Seven decades ago, at a time when we did not have diplomatic relations, and in a time when barter trade accounts did not exist, China and Sri Lanka signed the Rubber-Rice Pact against all odds. It opened the door to friendly exchanges. This remarkable achievement celebrated its 70th anniversary earlier this year,” the Prime Minister said.

“China has been a Kalyana Mitra, a very special friend for Sri Lanka. Kalyana Mitra is a friend who is with you in your times of happiness as well your times of sorrow. Even in the present situation China has assured further support for attracting investments, cooperation, and tourism to Sri Lanka.

“May our friendship grow from strength to strength to energise us to work for global harmony and the prosperity of our peoples,” Gunawardena emphasised.