China Expresses Enhanced Support to Sri Lanka

China's Trade Minister Cheng Demin has assured Sri Lanka enhanced support in respect of trade.President Rajapakse met the Chinese President to discuss bilateral and economic cooperation between the two countries. He expressed his gratitude at the start of the talks for the interest displayed by China on Sri Lanka's development activities. He made special mention of the coal power plant in Norochcholai, the Hambantota International Harbour and the Performing Arts Theatre. The Chinese Trade Minister assured the President to expedite work on these projects. They broached at length on improving production in Sri Lanka and the export process. The Chinese Minister adverted attention to the granting of further tax concessions for the tea industry. He agreed to the introduction of a relief tea package to the Mirigama Export Processing Zone, as a step on cooperation to enter the Chinese Market. The Chinese Trade Minister observed that Sri Lanka was a better place for Chinese entrepreneurs to launch textile factories and other soft factories. The importance of launching a special Sri Lanka Investment Zone at the Chinese International Investment and Trade Carnival was also discussed. President Rajapakse clarified to the Chinese Minister the work related to oil exploration in the Mannar Basin. The Chinese Minister expressed willingness to visit Sri Lanka to monitor the progress of projects launched with Chinese investments. Finance Secretary Dr. P.B. Jayasundera, Sri Lanka's Ambassador in China Karunatilake Amunugama, President's Additional Secretary Gamini Senarath, President's Cordinating Secretary Sajith De Vaas and embassy officials were present.