Major projects deepen Sri Lanka-China strategic partnership

Bilateral ties and economic cooperation between Sri Lanka and China reached new heights through key infrastructure projects and mutual support over the past six years.

The outgoing Chinese Ambassador Qi Zhenhong highlighted the milestone progress while concluding his diplomatic tenure in Colombo.

Both nations withstood severe difficulties together during this period, including the Covid-19 pandemic, economic hardship, Cyclone Ditwah, and energy crises. High-level meetings in 2025 between Chinese leaders, President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, and Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya set a renewed strategic course ahead of the 70th anniversary of diplomatic ties next year.

Flagship Belt and Road projects delivered major economic momentum, driven by thriving operations at Colombo Port City and Hambantota Port, alongside resumed work on the Central Expressway.

Chinese aid enhanced public services through the commissioning of the National Hospital outpatient building, the National Nephrology Hospital, digital education programmes, nearly 2,000 low-income housing units, and school uniform fabric for 4.4 million students.
Cultural and educational exchanges deepened through Buddhist heritage programmes, language centres, and seasonal festivals across the country.

Future bilateral efforts will target digital transformation, new energy, modern agriculture, and expanded Sri Lankan exports to China to strengthen the long-term partnership.