The present Government is committed to further strengthening the long-standing historic friendship between Sri Lanka and China, President Maithripala Sirisena said.

The President also said that the friendship between the two countries have been strengthened and has reached great heights in the fields of development, investment as well as at international fora, said China as a friendly state, stood on behalf of Sri Lanka at all times in the past as well as at present.

President Sirisena was addressing a ceremony at the BMICH, on Thursday to mark the 67th anniversary of the People’s Republic of China and the 35th anniversary of the Sri Lanka China Society. President Sirisena expressed appreciation over the assistance given by the Government of China in all fields, including education, health and infrastructure development.

The President also recalled with gratitude, the warm and respectful welcome he received during his first state visit to China at the invitation of Chinese President, after being elected as the President.

President Sirisena further said that the most valuable gift received from China is the Hospital for Kidney patients as per the request made by him during that state visit to China and promised the construction of the hospital would be completed expeditiously.

The President presented awards to the winners of the nationwide school level essay competition held to mark the 67th Anniversary of the People’s Republic of China.

Sri Lanka China Society president Amaradasa Gunawardana presented a book to President Sirisena.

Chinese Ambassador Yi Xianliang and a number of dignitaries participated in this event.