<b>Karu meets Chinese PM</b>

The Island

Beijing, Jul 29, 2002 (Xinhua via COMTEX) — Chinese Premier Zhu Rongji said here Monday that China sincerely hopes Sri Lanka can realize domestic peace, harmony among ethnic groups and economic prosperity.

Zhu made the remarks during a meeting with Karu Jayasuriya, special envoy of the prime minister of Sri Lanka.

Zhu said China-Sri Lanka relations had developed smoothly since the two established diplomatic ties, and China was satisfied with cooperation between the two countries.

Zhu recalled his visit to Sri Lanka last year, and said the Chinese government and people would remember the valuable support of the government and people of Sri Lanka when China was in difficulties.

The premier said China would, as a friend of Sri Lanka, continue to offer assistance within its capacity.

Jayasuriya said Sri Lanka-China relations dated back more than 2,000 years. He said the government and people of Sri Lanka were very grateful for China’s long-term support.

The special envoy briefed Zhu on the domestic situation of Sri Lanka. He said the new government of Sri Lanka was committed to its domestic peace process and hoped to restore peace, revitalize the economy and turn over a new leaf in the history of Sri Lanka.

-The Island -