A five- member delegation from China led by the Deputy Administrator of State Oceanic Administration of China, Zhang Hongsheng recently visited Sri Lanka in order to make observations regarding the proposed facility.

The Minister, meeting with the Chinese delegation at the Ministry premises noted that Sri Lanka's economic growth will be highly benefited by such a research and development center at a time most of the countries are striving towards a blue economy based on marine resources. Also with the implementation of this program, fishermen will be forewarned of marine disasters in advance.

"On a previous visit to China, I happened to observe all the facilities made available in your institute and it's a huge pleasure that China is willing to extend the technical support needed in establishing a similar research center in Sri Lanka with the same facilities. We believe this will lead to the enhancement of scientific knowledge in Sri Lankan fishers on harbors and oceanic functions," the Minister said.

The Minister also commented that Sri Lanka is enjoying another victory with the European Commission's decision to lift the ban imposed by them on exportation of Sri Lankan fish to European countries.

Expressing his views, Mr. Zhang Hongsheng said the two nations enjoy a strong friendship and share historical ties that reach back for hundreds of years. According to Both Buddhism and Confucianism mutual care and respect among friends is a virtue that need to be practiced and developed, the Chinese official said.

The Secretary to the Ministry Mrs. Mangalika Adikari and the Director General of the Department, Mr. M.C.L Perera were also present at the occasion.