Friendship Year sees close ties
On the occasion of celebrating the 50th anniversary of Sri Lanka-China diplomatic relations, I have the pleasure of extending my warmest congratulations to Your Excellency and to the friendly people of China.
Both countries have made arrangements to celebrate this important milestone in a fitting manner through a series of events and an exchange of high-level visits throughout the year 2007, which has been designated as the "China-Sri Lanka Friendship Year."
Sri Lanka and China have enjoyed very warm and friendly ties from historic times, and this year will further strengthen our commitment to support each other and promote cooperation, particularly our economic relations, for mutual benefit. We also appreciate China's continued assistance and goodwill for the progress, prosperity and well-being of our people.
The President of Sri Lanka is scheduled to pay a State visit to China in February and I myself look forward to meeting Your Excellency during the visit, for further consolidation of our warm relations.
Please accept, Your Excellency, the assurances of my highest consideration.
(China Daily 02/27/2007 page20)
