🇨🇳 Sri Lanka-China Relations Deepen "Beyond Commerce" via Peking University Academic Mission

A high-level delegation from Peking University led by Prof. Wang Weijia conducted in-depth research interviews with key state officials in Colombo to explore new bilateral cooperation models. • Strategic Trade & Investment: Western Province Governor H.E. Hanif Yusoof highlighted logistics, energy, and tourism as priority sectors for foreign capital. He urged leveraging Sri Lanka's geographic position to build regional supply chains and boost cooperation with Chinese firms in export-oriented manufacturing. • Partnership Beyond Transactions: Treasury Secretary Dr. Harshana Suriyapperuma emphasized that bilateral ties are bound by historical, cultural, and sentimental roots. He pointed to Port City Colombo as a symbol of this enduring partnership and a vital platform for long-term economic growth and international connectivity. • New Cooperation Models: BOI Acting Chairman Dr. Sulakshana Jayawardena noted that FDI projects like Port City generate foreign inflows, local employment, and technology transfer. He identified high-tech manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, and textiles as key areas for deeper future collaboration. • Knowledge & Governance Transfer: The BOI aims to leverage institutions like Peking University to study China's expertise in Special Economic Zone (SEZ) governance, manufacturing development, and workforce training. Prof. Wang affirmed the university's commitment to aligned research and academic exchanges.