Sri Lanka PM highlights stronger chapter in China ties built on trust, shared vision

Sri Lankan Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya described the current state of bilateral relations with China as entering a "stronger chapter" grounded in mutual respect, commitment and trust.

In an interview with China Media Group (CMG) aired on Friday, Amarasuriya emphasized the enduring friendship between the two countries and expressed confidence that the relationship is poised for even greater stability.

"We've had a long standing relationship. And this is a new chapter. And I think a stronger chapter, because I only see the relationship getting stronger, becoming stronger, because the thinking process is aligned, the vision is more aligned, and the strategies are more aligned. So, this relationship, I am confident, will continue to be an example of what a good, strong bilateral relationship [is] -- one that is based on mutual respect and commitment and trust, and what it can deliver for both countries," she said.

Her remarks build on assurances made during her October 2025 visit to Beijing, when President Xi Jinping underscored the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence and pledged support for Sri Lanka’s sovereignty and independence. At that time, both sides highlighted the relationship as a model of friendly ties and mutually beneficial cooperation, with Sri Lanka reaffirming its adherence to the one-China principle.

While the earlier discussions centered on Belt and Road projects and China’s global initiatives, Amarasuriya’s latest comments mark a shift toward strategic alignment, stressing shared vision and coordinated pathways.

Italy's central bank on Friday released its latest macroeconomic forecast report, lowering its economic growth prediction for the country over the next three years.

The report forecasts that Italy's GDP growth will be 0.5 percent in 2026, down from the previously forecasted 0.6 percent. The growth forecast for 2027 has been revised downward from 0.8 percent to 0.5 percent, and that for 2028 has been lowered from 0.9 percent to 0.8 percent. The bank said that the main reason for lowering the economic growth prediction is the rise in energy prices caused by the escalating tension in the Middle East, which has increased economic uncertainty. At the same time, the slowdown of global trade growth will also adversely affect Italy's exports.

The report points out that the current economic outlook for Italy is highly uncertain, and the future economic trend will largely depend on the situation in the Middle East and changes in energy prices.