Chinese President Hu Jintao(L) welcomes Sri Lankan President Bandaranalke Kumaratunga in The Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, on August 30, 2005.(

China and Sri Lanka agreed Tuesday in Beijing to upgrade bilateral ties to a new level during talks between the two heads of state.

Chinese President Hu Jintao put forward a five-point proposal, including encouraging contacts between governments, parliaments, parties and youths; promoting economic and trade cooperation; expanding cultural, educational, and tourism exchanges; helping Sri Lanka to rebuild the country since the tsunami of Indian Ocean happened last year; and enhancing cooperation in the sub-regional and international arena.

Visiting Sri Lankan President Bandaranalke Kumaratunga agreed with Hu's proposal, saying that Sri Lanka would like to strengthen cooperation with China on economy and trade, tourism, culture as well as infrastructure.

Hu said that China and Sri Lanka have enjoyed long-term friendship, and bilateral ties have developed smoothly since the two countries forged diplomatic ties 48 years ago.

Hu expressed gratitude for the support of Sri Lanka on the Taiwan issue, saying that China will continue to support Sri Lanka's effort to achieve national reconciliation, economic development and state sovereignty.

Kumaratunga was thankful for China's long-term assistance. She said the Sri Lankan government will continue to adhere to the one-China policy.

The two sides signed eight documents on economic, cultural, tourism, and other forms of cooperation. The two heads of state witnessed the signing ceremony.

Source: Xinhua