Sri Lanka, China to Expedite Comprehensive FTA

Sri Lanka, China to Expedite Comprehensive Free Trade Agreement

by Zulfick Farzan 16-01-2025 | 4:57 PM

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lanka and China expressed commitment to advancing all major development projects, including the integrated development of the Colombo Port City and Hambantota Port. 

This agreement was highlighted in a joint statement released during President Anura Kumara Dissanayake's state visit to China.

The joint statement, issued today, outlines the signing of a Belt and Road cooperation plan aimed at opening new avenues for successful development. 

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake of Sri Lanka and President Xi Jinping of China have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening bilateral relations, and a joint statement was issued following their engagements.

Key points from the joint statement include:

- Commitment to Building a China-Sri Lanka Community

- Reaffirm recognition of Taiwan as an inalienable part of China's territory and oppose any form of "Taiwan independence.

- China assured its commitment to an independent foreign policy of peace, while Sri Lanka emphasized its dedication to an independent non-aligned foreign policy.

- Both sides agreed to expedite the conclusion of a comprehensive free trade agreement, ensuring mutual benefits and win-win outcomes.

- Sri Lanka welcomed Chinese business investments.

- The two countries agreed to expand cooperation in agricultur

- An agreement was reached to enhance maritime cooperation

- Both sides committed to further exchanges of teachers, students, and researchers

- The joint statement emphasized the swift implementation of the agreed debt restructuring plan with Chinese financial institutions.

The joint statement also noted the signing of cooperation documents in agriculture, tourism, livelihood assistance, media, and other sectors during President Dissanayake's visit.