A high-level delegation from China’s Peking University has underscored the depth and diversity of Sri Lanka-China relations following a series of discussions with government officials, business leaders, legal experts, members of the armed forces and think tanks in Colombo, highlighting economic cooperation, cultural affinity and knowledge exchange as key pillars of the bilateral partnership.
The delegation, led by Prof. Wang Weijia, Director of the Research Centre for Global Governance and International Communication and Dean of the Institute of International Communication at Peking University, held extensive consultations on opportunities for strengthening cooperation between the two countries.
Meeting the Presidential Special Envoy on Foreign Investments and Western Province Governor Hanif Yusoof, the delegation discussed Sri Lanka’s trade and investment outlook, with logistics, energy and tourism identified as priority sectors for foreign investment. Yusoof noted that Chinese enterprises have made substantial contributions to Sri Lanka’s infrastructure, telecommunications and energy sectors and stressed the importance of leveraging the island’s strategic location to build regional supply chains and expand export-oriented manufacturing.
Secretary to the Treasury and Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development Dr. Harshana Suriyapperuma described Sri Lanka-China relations as rooted in centuries-old historical, cultural and emotional ties that go far beyond commercial transactions. He cited Port City Colombo as a symbol of the enduring partnership and a platform capable of enhancing Sri Lanka’s long-term economic growth and global connectivity.
Acting Board of Investment Chairman Dr. Sulakshana Jayawardena highlighted the broader benefits of Chinese-backed investments, noting that projects such as Port City Colombo not only attract foreign capital but also create employment opportunities and facilitate technology transfer. He identified high-tech manufacturing, pharmaceuticals and textiles as promising areas for deeper cooperation.
Dr. Jayawardena also emphasized the importance of strengthening collaboration in research and education, expressing hope that institutions such as Peking University could serve as bridges for academic exchanges and help Sri Lanka benefit from China’s experience in special economic zone management, industrial development and workforce training.
Throughout the visit, Prof. Wang presented Peking University’s strengths in area studies and international communication and reaffirmed the university’s commitment to supporting research aligned with Sri Lanka’s development priorities. He also stressed the importance of enhancing scholarly and cultural exchanges to deepen mutual understanding and further strengthen the longstanding friendship between the two nations.
The discussions highlighted that Sri Lanka-China relations encompass not only trade and investment, but also social, cultural and educational cooperation, reflecting a multifaceted partnership aimed at promoting sustainable development and stronger people-to-people ties.