China’s deepening relationship with Sri Lanka is becoming increasingly
conspicuous as the emerging super power extends relations beyond its
sphere of influence. This paper brings out the Sri Lankan perceptions of
the unconditional and timely help of China for Sri Lanka’s overall
development. Some of prominent Sri Lankan newspapers have been referred
to gauge the general Sri Lankan outlook. The relevant questions in this
context are the factors driving Sri Lanka towards China and whether
China’s unlimited help to Sri Lanka is with or without strings attached.
Political relations
Sri Lanka’s contemporary relations with China have been strengthened as
never before. The state owned Sunday Observer (‘China-Sri Lanka’s top
lender in 2009’, 18 April 2010) has commented that “silky relationship
has reached new heights during the Rajapaksha era.” Historically, Sri
Lanka and China have been recorded to be on friendly terms. However, the
ties have reached a peak level, especially under the administration of
President Mahinda Rajapaksha. Tamil Guardian (‘India’s troubles in Sri
Lanka’, 4 December 2010) shared a similar view, acknowledging that
“Rajapaksha has visited China five times in office and thrice before.”
more... The Sri-Lanka-China Relationship: A Print Media Analysis
