Second, to actively explore new approaches of economic cooperation, to earnestly implement the programs and projects agreed upon by both sides, and to encourage more Chinese enterprises to invest in such areas as transportation, electric power, housing, irrigation and water supply in Sri Lanka.

Third, to expand bilateral cooperation in the fields of culture, education, religion, tourism, human resource development and so on.

Fourth, to continue with the assistance in disaster relief and post-disaster recovery and to support the Sri Lankan people in rebuilding their homeland. China will ensure good quality and high efficiency in completing the reconstruction projects in the tsunami stricken areas and help to set up a seismographic network and train technicians specialized in disaster prediction and mitigation.

Fifth, to strengthen close cooperation between the two countries at the international, regional and sub-regional levels and to enhance coordination and collaboration on multilateral occasions as well as on key international issues.

Respect for sovereignty

It is highly appreciated by the Chinese Government that the Sri Lankan Government firmly upholds the one China principle, which is the cornerstone of our bilateral ties. It opposes Taiwan independence in whatever form and supports all efforts of China to safeguard its state sovereignty and territorial integrity. Sri Lanka understands and supports the Anti-Secession Law adopted by the National People's Congress of China.

The Chinese Government has reiterated that it will continue to support the endeavors of the Sri Lankan Government to safeguard its state sovereignty and territorial integrity, to realize national unity, and to develop the national economy.

It is our view that all countries, big or small, strong or weak, rich or poor, are all equal members of the international community. The partnership between the two countries is based on the principles of mutual respect for state sovereignty and territorial integrity, mutual non-aggression, non-interference in each other's internal affairs, equality and mutual benefit, and peaceful co-existence. The China-Sri Lanka relationship could be described as exemplary, almost a role model in diplomatic relations between two nations.

In the international arena, China and Sri Lanka have been supporting each other. For example, Sri Lanka was active in supporting China to enter the World Trade Organization and the Chinese candidate to run for the Director General of the World Health Organization. The two countries also share similar or the same views on the human rights issue.

A common understanding has been reached that the promotion of peace and development is the dominant theme in the current global situation. The two countries agree to continue consulting with each other on international and regional affairs. Both sides have reaffirmed their commitments to the UN Charter and the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence. While recognizing the unique role being played by the United Nations in political, economic and social development around the world, the two sides will continue consultations on the reform and improvement of the organization.

China appreciates Sri Lanka for its invaluable support to China's request for Observer Status to the SAARC. We would like to establish long-term and good-neighborly relations with all South Asian nations. China will work with Sri Lanka, India as well as other nations to play a constructive role in maintaining peace and stability and in promoting development of the Asian region as well as the world.

The year 2007 has been defined by both governments as Year of China-Sri Lanka Friendship. There will be a series of commercial, cultural and academic activities and functions arranged for the celebration of the 50th anniversary of our diplomatic relations both in Sri Lanka and in China.

For instance, there will be the Sri Lanka gem and jewelry show; presentation of movies; trade fair; exchange of cultural performances; exhibition of paintings, photographs, posters and commemorative stamps; TV documentaries on China-Sri Lanka relations; anniversary publications such as newspaper supplements and commemorative books.

The author is ambassador of China to Sri Lanka