Sri Lanka–China Bilateral Relations: Building on a Robust and Durable Foundation

Sri Lanka and China have had historical links that can be traced back several centuries. The Rubber-Rice Pact (1952) was a major watershed in forging close, cordial and durable relations in the post-independence era. China provided steadfast support to Sri Lanka in the fight against Terrorism. It was also prompt in providing generous support in financing development following the end of the conflict, particularly the unprecedented infrastructure development program which has addressed a key bottleneck constraining Sri Lanka’s growth prospects for decades. China has provided unhesitating support at times when other friends of Sri Lanka have shown reluctance.