Ananda Goonatilleke President, Sri Lanka-China Friendship Association, in a statement said historic friendship between Sri Lanka and China developed with vitality after both countries won independence respectively in 1948 and 1949 by assisting and cooperating with each other in internal and international issues.

Sri Lanka was one of the first 13 countries to recognize the People's Republic of China in January 1950 and established trade relations in 1952, diplomatic relations in 1957 and stood steadfastly in One China policy in all international forums despite economic, political and diplomatic pressures of imperialism, the statement said.

The SLCFA wishes to note the contribution of China to safeguard Sri Lanka's sovereignty in the 30-year-old war against terrorism and the assistance in the UNHRC in Geneva and also in Sri Lankan development activities.

President Maithripala Sirisena's visit to China takes place at an important juncture, where the new government of Sri Lanka has commenced a campaign for transparency, good governance and the rule of law, inclusive of infrastructure projects. This visit will strengthen bilateral diplomacy, friendship, cultural relations, Buddhist activities, investment, trade and tourism promotion between Sri Lanka and China, the SLCFA President said.