The bilateral relations between Sri Lanka and China are at a historic juncture and we look forward to opening new avenues to further strengthen the decades-old cooperation, said the newly appointed Chinese Ambassador to Sri Lanka Wei Huaxiang.
He made the remarks while addressing the media upon his arrival in Colombo.
The Chinese Ambassador further said:
China and Sri Lanka are two countries that share a long-standing traditional friendship. It is getting stronger with time. Sri Lanka occupies a leading position in the journey of development and rejuvenation. Sri Lanka is a good partner in win-win cooperation.
It is a great honor and privilege for Chinese President Xi Jinping to appoint me as the Chinese Ambassador to Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka is the pearl of the Indian Ocean.
I have a deep appreciation and feeling for Sri Lanka’s dignified culture, its breathtaking scenery and the warmth of its people. I have a strong personal connection to this island.
The visit of the Chinese monk Fa Xian to Sri Lanka in the fifth century and the subsequent maritime explorations of Admiral Zheng He are historically significant for us.
The Ambassador further said that under the One Belt, One Road initiative, millions of people from both countries will be able to permanently cultivate cooperation across many fields.

By Chandana Wijekoon