The Pathfinder Foundation (PF) recently hosted a productive and wide-ranging discussion with an Academic delegation from Beijing, China, at its headquarters at Riverpoint, Peliyagoda. The session brought together a notable group of former ambassadors, subject matter experts, and scholars from Peking and Capital Normal Universities and the PF, reinforcing the Foundation’s commitment to fostering constructive international dialogue.
The discussions were centred around the socio-economic impact of Port City Projects, Current status of Sri Lanka’s economy and path for economic recovery and challenges, cultural exchanges and commonalities between China and Sri Lanka, Importance of enhanced interaction between the young population of both countries even through social media, new Initiatives in Sri Lanka such as Clean Sri Lanka, Digitization and Renewable Energy.
In addition to bilateral topics, the dialogue also touched upon regional strategic concerns, particularly the evolving situation in the Indian Ocean Region. Emphasis was placed on the importance of safeguarding the freedom of maritime commerce and recognising that many countries in the region prioritise economic growth and infrastructure development.
Participants also reflected on Sri Lanka’s nuanced diplomatic approach in balancing its relationships with both China and India. Both parties acknowledged the importance of continued collaboration between Chinese research institutions and the PF. It was proposed that joint studies and knowledge-sharing initiatives be pursued to address misunderstandings and mistrust in the region, fostering a win-win outcome for all.
The session was chaired by Dr. Dayaratna Silva, Executive Director of the PF, and featured presentations from Admiral (Prof.) Jayanath Colombage and Dr. R.H.S. Samaratunga; Distinguished Fellows of the PF, Amb. Ahmed A. Jawad, Director of the PF, and Ms. Zhao Yuke and Ms. Zhang Hanshu; Ph.D. Candidates of the School of Journalism and Communication, Peking University. The Chinese scholars were led by Prof. WANG Weijia, Dean of the Institute of International Communication, Peking University, and Associate Research Fellow ZHAI Xiufeng, Institute of Global and Area Studies, Capital Normal University.