On May 24, 2011, Chinese Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi held talks in Beijing with his Sri Lankan counterpart Gamini Lakshman Peiris, who is here for a working visit. Both sides exchanged views on bilateral relations and issues of common concern.

Yang said China and Sri Lanka are friendly neighbors. The Chinese government attaches great importance to developing the comprehensive cooperative partnership with the south Asian nation, said Yang. China is ready to work with Sri Lanka to push forward the ties. Yang remarked on the progress Sir Lanka has made in economic and social reconstruction work since the country realized internal peace in 2009. China believes that the Sri Lankan government and people have the capacity to handle their internal affairs, achieve national reconciliation, social stability and economic prosperity, said Yang.

Peiris said Sri Lanka and China have always maintained mutual understanding and support since the two countries forged diplomatic ties 54 years ago. China's political and economic support to Sri Lanka was appreciated, he said, citing the country's support of Sri Lanka's efforts in safeguarding its national independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity and providing assistance for its economic and social development. Sri Lanka cherishes the traditional friendship with China and believes with the joint efforts of both sides, bilateral friendly cooperative relations will reach a new level.