Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met Sri Lankan counterpart Vijitha Herath on 12 January 2026 in Colombo, pledging to deepen the China Sri Lanka partnership through expanded cooperation in infrastructure, tourism and maritime affairs while offering further cyclone relief.
The meeting underscores China’s growing role in South Asia’s economic recovery and stability, particularly for debt-burdened nations like Sri Lanka, amid broader Belt and Road Initiative dynamics that influence regional trade and geopolitics.
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi arrived in Colombo on 12 January 2026 for a brief stopover en route from Africa. He held talks with Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath at the Foreign Ministry. The discussions focused on advancing bilateral relations and addressing recent challenges.
Wang expressed China’s commitment to supporting Sri Lanka post-cyclone Ditwah, which struck in late 2025 and caused widespread damage. He assured continued aid for recovery efforts.
Herath thanked China for its prompt assistance, including emergency supplies delivered shortly after the disaster. He requested additional support for infrastructure restoration, such as roads, railways and bridges essential for economic revival.
Wang Yi Sri Lanka Visit Key Outcomes
During the Wang Yi Sri Lanka visit, both sides agreed to enhance governance exchanges and practical cooperation across sectors. Wang stated China is willing to deepen the strategic cooperative partnership based on mutual assistance and friendship.
“China is willing to enhance exchanges of governance experience with Sri Lanka, expand practical cooperation in various fields, facilitate people-to-people exchanges, further deepen the strategic cooperative partnership based on sincere mutual assistance and everlasting friendship between the two countries,” Wang said.
The Wang Yi Sri Lanka visit also highlighted commitments to multilateralism and safeguarding developing countries’ rights. Wang emphasised promoting a fairer global governance system.
Herath reaffirmed Sri Lanka’s adherence to the one-China principle. He expressed support for China’s positions on Taiwan, Hong Kong, Xinjiang and Xizang, opposing external interference.
China Sri Lanka Strategic Cooperation in Focus
The talks advanced China Sri Lanka strategic cooperation in economy, trade and investment. Herath noted gratitude for China’s role in debt restructuring during Sri Lanka’s 2022 economic crisis.
China Sri Lanka strategic cooperation extends to cultural and tourism ties. Wang proposed expanding exchanges to boost people-to-people connections.
Maritime development featured prominently in discussions on China Sri Lanka strategic cooperation. Both ministers discussed collaborative projects to enhance port and shipping infrastructure.
Wang conveyed optimism about Sri Lanka’s progress. “Sri Lanka is on the right path to progress,” he said, assuring sustained support for development goals.
Sinopec Hambantota Project Progress
A key highlight was the Sinopec Hambantota project. Herath announced the agreement for the SINOPEC Oil Refinery Project in Hambantota will be finalised in the first quarter of 2026.
The Sinopec Hambantota project involves a major refinery investment, expected to create jobs and boost energy security. It builds on previous Chinese investments in the Hambantota region, including the port leased in 2017.
The Sinopec Hambantota project is part of high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, as noted by both sides. It aims to support Sri Lanka’s industrial growth.
Background
China and Sri Lanka established diplomatic relations in 1957. Over decades, ties have strengthened through economic aid and infrastructure projects.
In 2013, relations elevated to a strategic cooperative partnership. China has invested over USD 10 billion in Sri Lanka under the Belt and Road Initiative, including the Colombo Port City and highways.
Sri Lanka’s 2022 debt default highlighted reliance on Chinese loans, amounting to about 10% of external debt. Recent restructuring agreements have eased pressures.
The cyclone Ditwah in December 2025 affected over 500,000 people, causing damages estimated at USD 1.5 billion. China’s initial aid included tents, food and medical supplies worth CNY 20 million.
These developments frame the current China Sri Lanka partnership, with focus on sustainable growth and resilience.
What’s Next
Following the Wang Yi Sri Lanka visit, officials expect the Sinopec Hambantota project agreement signing by March 2026. This could lead to construction starting mid-year.
Further talks on China Sri Lanka strategic cooperation may occur at upcoming regional forums, such as the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation meetings.
Sri Lanka plans to seek additional grants for cyclone recovery, potentially through the China Sri Lanka partnership framework.
Experts anticipate increased tourism flows, with direct flights resuming between major cities.
The China Sri Lanka partnership continues to evolve, promising enhanced collaboration for mutual benefit.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, January 13th, 2026
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