China lauds Indian efforts to aid Sri Lanka in economic crisis

Beijing: Chinese administration made a curious move, praising India for its efforts to support Sri Lanka (SL) in the island nation's unprecedented economic crisis. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Zhao Lijian told the media that Beijing appreciates Indian efforts on SL, where the situation had choked the distribution of fuel and essentials, Asian News International reported.

The Lijian said that Beijing had taken note that the Indian government has done a lot, and it commends the efforts. China is also ready to work with India as well as the rest of the international community to aid SL also other developing countries which are facing difficulties.

Replying to a remark SL President Gotabhaya Rajapaksa earlier, Lijian said that Beijing would make full use of its channels to help SL's society. Rajapaksa had said in an interview on June 6 that Colombo couldn't utilise a $1.5 billion credit line from China while it is waiting to hear back on the request made to Beijing for a $1 billion loan. He claimed that China had shifted its strategic focus to Southeast Asia and Africa ditching South Asia.

Lijian had added on Wednesday that Beijing always delivered support to SL's development as per its ability. China had announced emergency humanitarian assistance worth 500 million RMB for Sri Lanka, he added.

The unprecedented crisis in SL had prompted months-long protests due to a shortage of many supplies, people taking the streets and severe clashes. The currency shortages had stopped the nation from importing essentials, while the situation caused the oustering former Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa.

India had extended a major helping hand to the neighbour, including delivering 3.3 tonnes of medical supplies last week. Earlier, New Delhi had supplied humanitarian/financial assistance, forex support, material supply etc. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's "Neighbourhood First" policy delivered medical supplies worth nearly 370 million Sri Lankan rupees. Also, another $3.5 billion in economic assistance along with humanitarian supplies such as rice, milk powder and kerosene, the Indian High Commission had informed.