Rajapaksa's Beijing Visit: Debt Talks & Diplomatic Milestones

Former Sri Lankan president Mahinda Rajapaksa is on an official visit to Beijing to discuss debt restructuring with Premier Li Qiang and Foreign Minister Wang Yi. His visit also includes attending the 70th anniversary of the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, amid preparations for potential presidential elections.

Former Sri Lankan president Mahinda Rajapaksa embarked on an official visit to Beijing on Thursday. This strategic trip aims to discuss Sri Lanka's debt restructuring with Chinese Premier Li Qiang and Foreign Minister Wang Yi, a vital dialogue considering China's significant share of Sri Lanka's external debt.

The visit coincides with the 70th anniversary of the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, with Rajapaksa attending events in Beijing alongside President Xi Jinping and other key Communist Party of China members. The discussions also cover potential development projects beneficial to Sri Lanka and convey gratitude for China's support.

Rajapaksa's visit comes at a critical juncture as Sri Lanka navigates an economic crisis and prepares for presidential elections. His role and influence in selecting the next presidential candidate are being closely monitored, especially in the context of the political unrest following his brother Gotabaya's ousting in 2022.