Sri Lanka and China discuss deeper cooperation in public administration, local government, disaster response, clean water and early-warning technology.
COLOMBO — Sri Lanka and China have held discussions on broadening bilateral cooperation in areas ranging from public administration reform and local government development to disaster management, clean drinking water and technology-based early-warning systems.
The talks were held between Chinese Ambassador to Sri Lanka Wei Huaxiang and Minister of Public Administration, Provincial Councils and Local Government Prof. Chandana Abayarathna, according to reports published on Monday.
The discussions focused on strengthening the capacity of Sri Lanka’s public administration and local government institutions, while also examining areas where Chinese expertise and assistance could support disaster preparedness and community services.
One of the areas discussed was the use of artificial intelligence and other technologies in early-warning systems, an increasingly important issue for Sri Lanka following severe weather events and natural disasters that have caused extensive damage to infrastructure and communities.
Clean drinking water was also identified as an area for potential cooperation, particularly in communities where access to reliable water supplies remains a challenge.
The meeting comes as Sri Lanka and China continue to expand cooperation beyond major infrastructure development into public-sector capacity building, disaster recovery and technical assistance.
The latest discussions also coincide with Chinese assistance for the reconstruction of infrastructure damaged by Cyclone Ditwah, including a separate agreement to rebuild 14 major bridges.
No detailed timetable for the proposed public-administration and disaster-management programmes has yet been announced.
