China, Sri Lanka vow to further traditional friendship

China and Sri Lanka have pledged to further their traditional friendship and develop new initiatives "to inject fresh vigor and vitality to their bilateral relations."

In a joint press communique issued in Beijing on December 29 by Chinese Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing and his Sri Lankan counterpart Lakshman Kadirgamar, the two sides agreed to keep the momentum of their high-level visits and to enhance the multi-tiered exchanges between the parliaments, political parties, non-governmental organizations, corporate sectors and youths.

They agreed that their mutually beneficial cooperation, based on the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, had advanced steadily over the 47 years since the two countries forged diplomatic relations.

Emphasizing the significance of enhanced economic cooperation, the two sides expressed their readiness to explore and develop new channels to deepen cooperation.

The two sides promised to expand their coordination and cooperation in regional and international affairs, and work closely in the United Nations, the Asia Cooperation Dialogue, the Indian Ocean Rim Association for Regional Cooperation and other organizations.

The two sides exchanged views on the situation in south Asia and in East Asia and expressed their shared commitment to peace, stability, cooperation and prosperity in the regions.

In the communique, Sri Lanka reiterated its one China policy, opposing any form of Taiwan independence and supporting all efforts by the Chinese government to safeguard sovereignty and territorial integrity. Sri Lanka supports China's legislative measures to oppose pro-Taiwan independence forces seceding from China, and hopes to see an early reunification of China.

The Chinese side affirmed support for Sri Lanka's endeavors to develop its national economy. And the two sides reaffirmed their opposition to the three evils of terrorism, separatism and extremism.

The Chinese government and people extended their deep condolences and sympathy to Sri Lanka on the loss of lives, suffering and economic devastation caused by the tidal waves, and China decided to provide assistance and essential emergency supplies to the Sri Lankan Government, according to the communique.

Chinese, Sri Lankan foreign ministers hold talks

Chinese Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing met in Beijing on December 29 with visiting Foreign Minister Lakshman Kadirgamar of Sri Lanka, and exchanged views on issues of common concern.

Before their talks, they stood for a minute of silence for the victims of the tsunamis, which struck south and southeast Asia on Sunday.

Li said he wished Sri Lankan government and people could work together to tide over the temporary difficulties and rebuild their homes as early as possible.

After the disaster occurred, Chinese leaders have sent telegrams to Sri Lanka leaders to express their sympathy and cordial regards. Emergency relief goods were also shipped from China to the disaster-hit areas.

Giving an active comment of the two countries' good relationship in the past, Li said China is willing to expand and deepen its cooperation with Sri Lanka in trade, tourism, science, education and international affairs.

Kadirgamar said China is one of Sri Lanka's most reliable friends and always offers a hand when the country is in need. He expressed thanks to China for the disaster relief.

Sri Lanka will adhere to the One China policy, oppose Taiwan Independence and support all efforts China takes in curbing separatism, said Kadirgamar. His country will continue to support China on issues related to Taiwan, Tibet and human rights, and it is also ready to expand cooperation with China to pass on the Sino-Sri Lankan friendship to younger generations and to benefit the people of both countries.

Kadirgamar arrived in Beijing Monday for an official visit at the invitation of Li Zhaoxing.

Source: Xinhua