Xi calls for fair, transparent environment for investment in Sri Lanka

• Says not happy about China’s friendly countries being influenced by others in decision making 
• Chinese PM raises concerns on research vessel saga
• Sri Lanka would not allow any country to use its territory against the interests of any country

By Kelum Bandara   
Chinese President Xi Jinping , in his recent meeting with Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena, has reportedly stressed the need for ‘fair and transparent’ environment for Chinese companies to invest in Sri Lanka .  
The Chinese leader had further mentioned that China is not happy about its friends being influenced by other countries unnecessarily when taking decisions .  
However , in the meeting which a top source mentioned as friendly and cordial , the Chinese President did not refer to any third country in his remarks .  
The Prime Minister recently undertook a tour of China between March 25 and 30 to attend the Boao Forum for Asia (BFA) Annual Conference 2024.   
He held bilateral discussions during the visit .  
Meanwhile , during a separate meeting ,  
Chinese Prime Minister Li Qiang has raised concerns about Sri Lanka announcing a moratorium on foreign research vessels in its Exclusive Economic Zone ( ECZ) targeting Chinese ships while entertaining a similar vessel from Germany in between .  
Mr. Gunawardena has reportedly responded saying Sri Lanka allowed the German vessel only for replenishment . He said Sri Lanka could not decline such requests for replenishment according to the law .  
He also said Sri Lanka would not allow any country to use its territory against the interests of any country .