China, Sri Lanka to restart FTA talks?

COLOMBO (News 1st); State Councilor and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has said discussions should be held to restart talks on a free trade agreement between China and Sri Lanka to send more positive signals to the world and contribute to Sri Lanka's economic recovery and development.

Quoting Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa, a statement from the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs read "Sri Lanka appreciates China never interfering in its domestic affairs and thanks to China for its long-term and enormous support for the country's economic and social development"

The statement went on to note that China firmly supports Sri Lanka in safeguarding national sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity and in following a development path suited to its national conditions.