Ready for stronger ties with Lanka: Xi to Dissanayake

President Xi Jinping Wednesday expressed Beijing's readiness to usher in a new era of development in China-Sri Lanka ties as he met Sri Lankan counterpart Anura Kumara Dissanayake here following which both countries signed several agreements to boost bilateral relations.

Xi emphasised China's readiness to work closely with Sri Lanka in ushering in a new era of development.

Following this, the two sides signed several MoUs aimed at strengthening collaboration in areas such as economy, social development, and industry, it said.

During the State Visit, Dissanayake is scheduled to participate in several key engagements and undertake field visits focused on technological and agricultural development, as well as initiatives aimed at poverty alleviation.

The talks would also cover the Chinese industrial zone around the southern port of Hambantota.

China expanded its strategic ties with Sri Lanka during the rule of pro-Beijing leader Mahinda Rajapaksa, his brother Gotabaya Rajapaksa and Ranil Wickramasinghe with the acquisition of Hambantota port for 99 years lease as a debt swap followed by the development of Colombo Port City project.