Message of Congratulations from Chinese President

Hu Jintao to Sri Lankan President Rajapaksa

His Excellency Mahinda Rajapaksa

President of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka

Colombo

On the occasion of the 50^th Anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the People’s Republic of China and the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka, and the “China-Sri Lanka Friendship Year”, I wish to extend, on behalf of the Chinese Government and people and in my own name, our warm congratulations and best wishes to Your Excellency and, through Your Excellency, to the Sri Lankan Government and People.

Our two peoples have a long history of friendly exchanges. The past half century has witnessed the healthy and smooth growth of the bilateral relations. Having stood the test of time and changes in the international environment, China-Sri Lanka relations stand as an example of friendly coexistence between countries with different social systems. The growing exchanges and cooperation between our two countries in various areas have achieved remarkable progress. We have worked closely in international and regional affairs. The establishment of the China-Sri Lanka all-round cooperative partnership has instilled new vitality into our bilateral relations. The Chinese Government cherishes its traditional friendship with Sri Lanka and is committed to promoting China-Sri Lanka friendly ties. As we mark the 50^th Anniversary of China-Sri Lanka diplomatic relations and the “China-Sri Lanka Friendship Year”, we will work with Sri Lanka to enhance friendship and deepen cooperation of mutual benefit to strengthen China-Sri Lanka all-round cooperative partnership.

May Sri Lanka enjoy prosperity and your people enjoy happiness.

May the friendship between China and Sri Lanka be everlasting.

Hu Jintao

President of the People’s Republic of China

February 7, 2007