He made these remarks addressing a ceremony held at the BMICH on Thursday (29th Sept.) to mark the 67th Anniversary of the People’s Republic of China and the 35th anniversary of the Sri Lanka China Society.

The President also said that at present 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 and he further stated that China as a friendly state stood on behalf of Sri Lanka at all times in the past as well as at present.

President Sirisena expressed appreciation over the assistance given by the Government of China in all fields, including the education, health and infrastructure development. He 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 essay competition held to mark the 67th Anniversary of the People’s Republic of China and Amaradasa Gunawardana, the President of the Sri Lanka China Society presented a book to President Sirisena.

The dignitaries including the Chinese Ambassador, Yi Xianliang participated in this event.