Senior Colonel Xu Jianwei, a senior officer of the Chinese Army said, China had provided powerful support to the social-economic development and military and defense construction of Sri Lanka.

"The friendship between China has withstood the test of time and grew even stronger. Chinese military attaches great importance to improving relations with Sri Lanka military," he said, addressing an event in Colombo, to mark the 91st founding anniversary of the People's Liberation Army in Jaffna. 

"In the past few years, two militaries have witnessed the deepening communication and cooperation in the areas of personell training, joint training, maritime security etc. This year China will continue to provide various training courses for tri-forces, to complete building Chinese-funded auditorium complex at the Sri Lanka Military Academy, and make preparations to hand over a gift frigate to Sri Lanka Navy," the officer said.

"China is willing to enhance mutual strategic trust and is keen to see both countries continue supporting each other on issues for core interest. China wishes to boost the development of Belt and Road initiative to strengthen the pragmatic cooperation between two countries and two militaries," he said.