China and Sri Lanka Deepen Strategic Ties Amid Global Leaders’ Meeting on Women

Beijing, October 13, 2025 – Chinese Premier Li Qiang met with Sri Lankan Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya in Beijing on Monday, as both nations reaffirmed their longstanding ties and pledged to expand cooperation across multiple sectors. The bilateral meeting took place on the sidelines of the Global Leaders’ Meeting on Women, underscoring the growing intersection of gender equality with international diplomacy.

Premier Li emphasized the “deep traditional friendship” between China and Sri Lanka, and reiterated Beijing’s commitment to building a “China-Sri Lanka community with a shared future.” He outlined a vision for enhanced cooperation, particularly under the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), which has been central to China’s global infrastructure and trade strategy.

“China is ready to work with Sri Lanka to deepen mutually beneficial cooperation,” Li stated. “We will continue to expand two-way trade and investment, while strengthening collaboration in green development, digital economy, modern agriculture, and the marine economy.”

Premier Li also announced China’s intent to import more high-quality Sri Lankan products, and said the Chinese government would continue to encourage domestic enterprises to invest in Sri Lanka, a country that has played a strategic role in China’s maritime trade routes.

Prime Minister Amarasuriya, making her first official visit to China since assuming office, echoed the sentiment of enduring partnership. She praised the “long history” of China-Sri Lanka relations and expressed gratitude for Beijing’s continued support in development efforts.

“The Sri Lankan government attaches great importance to our relations with China,” said Amarasuriya. “We look forward to deepening cooperation in areas such as investment, ports, infrastructure, agriculture, textile industry, poverty reduction, and the digital economy.”

Her remarks highlighted Sri Lanka’s ongoing efforts to attract foreign investment as the island nation continues its economic recovery following years of fiscal challenges and global supply chain disruptions.

The timing of the meeting, during an international summit on women’s leadership and empowerment, also signaled a broader commitment by both countries to inclusive development. Though gender equality was not explicitly discussed in the bilateral talks, the setting reflected a shared interest in integrating social progress with economic and geopolitical engagement.

As both sides look to the future, the reaffirmation of ties is expected to strengthen China’s influence in South Asia, while providing Sri Lanka with a critical economic partner amid shifting global dynamics. The talks marked a significant step in translating diplomatic goodwill into concrete development outcomes.