Top Chinese legislator Wu Bangguo said on Monday that China will boost cooperation with Sri Lanka.

 

Wu, chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress, made the remarks while meeting with Sri Lankan Parliament Speaker W. J. M. Lokubandara in Beijing.

 

He hailed Sino-Sri Lankan relations, saying it had witnessed sound development in the past five decades.

 

China and Sri Lanka established diplomatic relations in 1957.

 

The two sides had exchanged high-level visits, strengthened political mutual-trust, expanded trade and economic cooperation and coordinated on international and regional issues, Wu noted.

 

China and Sri Lanka announced the development of an all-round cooperative partnership last year.

 

The National People's Congress, China's top legislative body, will constantly play a positive role in promoting Sino-Sri Lankan ties, enhance exchanges and cooperation on legislation and supervision, deepen understanding and friendship between the two peoples, he acknowledged.

 

Lokubandara said China is "always a real friend" of Sri Lanka. He appreciated the support from the Chinese government and people, noting Sri Lanka will consolidate and further the existing friendly cooperation with China, including cooperation between the two parliaments.

 

He said that Sri Lanka will constantly pursue the one-China policy.

 

(Xinhua News Agency June 27, 2006)