President Anura Kumara Dissanayake is set to embark on a three-day visit to China starting January 14, marking a significant step in strengthening Sri Lanka-China diplomatic ties. The visit, which commemorates 68 years of bilateral relations, underscores Sri Lanka’s commitment to furthering its partnership with China.

Strengthening Bilateral Relations

According to government spokesperson and Minister Nalinda Jayathissa, Dissanayake’s visit is a milestone in the longstanding diplomatic relations between the two nations. This will be the second foreign visit for President Dissanayake since taking office on September 21, following his trip to India in December. During his China visit, Dissanayake will be accompanied by key figures, including Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath and Minister of Transport Bimal Rathnayaka.

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Sri Lanka’s Continued Support for One China Policy

In line with this visit, Sri Lanka has reaffirmed its support for China’s “One China” policy. A proposal to express Sri Lanka’s acceptance of this policy was approved by the cabinet earlier this week. The cabinet statement emphasized Sri Lanka’s continued adherence to the One China principle, treating Taiwan as a province of China.

Strengthening Ties Under China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)

During his recent discussions with Chinese officials, including Vice-Chairwoman Qin Boyong of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), President Dissanayake reiterated Sri Lanka’s commitment to China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). This multi-billion dollar infrastructure project aims to enhance connectivity between China, Southeast Asia, Central Asia, Russia, and Europe. Sri Lanka has expressed its intent to be an active participant in the high-quality development under the BRI, which seeks to improve trade and connectivity across the globe.

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Sri Lanka’s Diplomatic Balance Between China and India

While strengthening ties with China, President Dissanayake has also been keen to reassure Sri Lanka’s neighbors of the island nation’s strategic approach. In his December visit to India, President Dissanayake assured Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi that Sri Lanka would not allow its territory to be used in ways that could be detrimental to India’s interests, with particular reference to China’s growing presence in the region.

Continued Support and Debt Restructuring

China has been a key ally to Sri Lanka in recent years, offering support in restructuring its international debt. President Dissanayake has expressed his gratitude to China for its ongoing cooperation, particularly in the economic sector, as Sri Lanka navigates its debt challenges. The strengthened ties are expected to lead to more collaboration in trade, infrastructure development, and regional cooperation in the future.

As President Dissanayake’s visit to China draws closer, Sri Lanka’s position on the global stage continues to evolve, with a careful balance between fostering strong relations with both China and India.