China has assured support to maintain and enhance the quality of drinking water in Sri Lanka. A delegation from the Chinese Research and Science Academy, during a recent visit here, has discussed ways and means of addressing the pressing issue of decline in the quality of ground water here.

A spokesperson for the Water Supply and Estate Infrastructure Development yesterday told The Island that the Chinese Research and Science Academy would implement a series of programmes to maintain the quality of water and sanitation in the country at a satisfactory standard under the UNO’s sustainable development targets. This would be in line with Sri Lanka’s efforts to implement a national policy in this regard, the official said.

The Chinese delegation last Friday (09) met Minister of Water Supply and Estate Infrastructure Development Jeewan Thondaman at the Ratmalana National Water Supply and Drainage Board auditorium.

The Chinese delegation included Prof. Chcngzi Hu, Prof. Yang Min, Prof. Wei Yuan Song and Dr. Yawei Wang .Minister Jeewan Thondaman appreciated the services rendered by the Chinese government by introducing advanced technology to enhance the quality in drinking water as well as donation of water refining installations, and research laboratories complete with all facilities.

The Minister has assured his support to the Chinese initiatives here.Deputy Director General of the Chinese Academy of Science Prof. Chcngzi Hu has said the Chinese Academy of Science would support research programmes here.

“On behalf of the Chinese Academy of Science, I would like to express our sincere appreciation for you to host this meeting. Over the past eight years our collaboration has borne significant fruits. Together, we have built a special facility, equipped it with instruments and conducted vital research and demonstration in water treatment technology. Furthermore, we have initiated education and training programmes for professionals in the fields of water and health. These programmes have received high recognition.

” We are considering the establishment of specialized internship programmes at the University of Peradeniya to expand our cooperation. We also see potential in launching joint technical knowledge exchange activities to promote laboratories and capabilities” he further said.

Addl. Secretary to the Ministry of Water Supply A.M.Nafeel, Vice Chancellor of Peredeniya University Prof. D.M.Lamawansa, Chairman of the National Water Supply and Drainage Board Nishantha Ranathunga, Director General of JRDC S.K.Weragoda were present at the occasion.