China to rebuild damaged fisheries harbours
[January 13, 2005 - 11.00 GMT]

Vice Foreign Affairs Minister of the People’s Republic of China Mr. Wu Dawei called on President Chandrika Kumaratunga yesterday (Jan 12).

Mr. Dawei while conveying the condolences of the Government and the people of China assured continued assistance to rebuild the tsunami-affected areas of Sri Lanka. The President expressed her gratitude to the Government of the People’s Republic of China for its immediate role in rescue and relief operations. President Kumaratunga briefed the Vice Minister on the scale of the tsunami disaster and the measures adopted by the Government to help affected communities.

China has pledged 150 Million Yuan (about 18 Million UDS) for Sri Lanka out of 500 million Yuan for the entire Asian region hit by the December 26 tsunami. China sent several loads of relief goods to Sri Lanka immediately and several medical teams from China now serve in various parts of the island.

Mr. Wu Dawei told the President that China would help rebuild the infrastructure of the fisheries industry, especially to develop fishing harbours, which were severely damaged by the tidal wave. Ten out of twelve of the fishing harbors have been destroyed. The total damage to the fisheries infrastructure is over Rs. 50 billion while over 5,000 fisher families have been displaced as a result of the calamity. President Kumaratunga discussed the possibility of purchasing fiberglass boats from China to help fishermen resume their livelihood soon.

The Ambassador of China in Sri Lanka Sun Guoxiang, Foreign Affairs Additional Secretary Ms. Chitrangani Wagiswara and other embassy officials were among those present at yesterday’s meeting.

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Last Updated Date: January 13, 2005 - 11.00 GMT