China had been a real friend of Sri Lanka, Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena said on Wednesday at the 73rd Anniversary of Chinese National Day celebrations organised by China Sri Lanka Friendship Associations.Gunawardena said that the People’s Republic of China had been founded on the 1st of October 1949 after a revolution led by Mao Tse Tung, Leader Chou En Lai, and other leaders of the Communist Party of China.

“President Xi Jinping said recently that China and Sri Lanka should be praised for setting an example of friendly coexistence and mutually beneficial cooperation between countries. Seven decades ago at a time when we did not have diplomatic relations, and at a time when barter trade accounts did not exist, China and Sri Lanka signed the Rubber-Rice Pact. It opened the door to friendly exchanges. This remarkable achievement celebrated its 70th anniversary earlier this year,” he said.

“China has been a very special friend for Sri Lanka. Kalyana Mitra is a friend who is with you in your times of happiness as well your times of sorrow.

“The Rice Rubber pact greatly enhanced trade, aid, and investments to expand upon a platform of mutual cooperation and friendship. And was furthered through diplomatic relations respecting Sri Lanka’s independence, sovereignty, safeguarding of Unitary State, territorial integrity, and Buddhism,” the Prime Minister said.

Even in the present situation China has assured further support for attracting investments, cooperation, and tourism to Sri Lanka, the PM said.

“Today, China has laid the foundation to become a global giant changing the international balance of power. Its speedy and balanced progress in political, socio-economic, poverty alleviation, cultural, scientific, technological, environment, research and space spheres deserves our esteemed respect. China is a true decisive global leader, especially with its leadership and assistance to Asia, Africa, and Latin America and towards prosperity of All Nations.”