Longstanding friendship continues
Sri Lanka recognized the People's Republic of China in fact in 1950 even before establishing full diplomatic relations with resident embassies in our respective countries.
Since then, the two countries have enjoyed excellent relations, which have extended into political, economic, cultural, religious and technical aspects.
With many events being planned for 2007, the "China-Sri Lanka Friendship Year," new fields of cooperation can also be identified and developed, while existing bilateral activity can be further consolidated in the interest of our people.
Having visited China last year to participate in the Bo'ao Forum, I was able to understand and appreciate firsthand China's current level of development and progress, which provides opportunities for all of us in the region.
It is my fervent wish that the cordial relations both Sri Lanka and China were able to maintain through out the past 50 years of diplomatic ties between the two countries will, no doubt, entice each other to further intensify the harmonious friendship so carefully preserved and protected.
Excerpts from congratulations by Prime Minister of Sri Lanka Ratnasiri Wickramanayaka
(China Daily 02/27/2007 page19)
