Minister of Foreign Affairs, Professor G.L. Peiris met with the Ambassador of China, Qi Zhenhong, on 30 June, 2022 at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Following the exchange of pleasantries, Minister Peiris appreciated China’s continued assistance to Sri Lanka. The Foreign Minister also apprised the Ambassador of the current situation in the country and the shortage of fuel, food and pharmaceutical equipment which have adversely affected the economy of Sri Lanka. The Minister added that bilateral partners and international agencies are in regular discussions to address these challenges.
The Foreign Minister assured the Chinese Ambassador that Sri Lanka will continue to stand by ‘one China policy’ and pledged Sri Lanka's unwavering support to protect China's sovereignty and territorial integrity. The Minister mentioned that he held discussions with the leaders of 12 countries on the current situation in terms of in Sri Lanka on the flanks of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Kigali, Rwanda and the assistance required by Sri Lanka at this critical juncture He briefed the Ambassador on the ongoing discussion with the IMF for financial assistance as well as restructuring (reformulating) Sri Lanka’s debt. As well as the measures that are put in place by the Govt to address the most pressing issues.
The Chinese Envoy appreciated the Government of Sri Lanka position and its consistent stance on ‘one China policy’. Ambassador Qi assured that the Chinese Government would remain engaged with Sri Lanka towards extending assistance to Sri Lanka in every possible manner. The Foreign Minister extended Sri Lanka’s profound gratitude to the Government of China for their unstinted support. Senior officials of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and officials of the Chinese Embassy were present at the meeting.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Colombo, 03 July, 2022