China’s CAITEC visits Pathfinder Foundation to discuss deepening cooperation
A three-member delegation, headed by Chinese Academy of International Trade and Economic Cooperation (CAITEC) Director Prof. Zhang Dan, visited the Pathfinder Foundation (PF) head office at River Point, Peliyagoda, to discuss how they can strengthen institutional and bilateral relations.
PF Founder Milinda Moragoda welcoming the timely visit of the delegation emphasised the need for taking Sri Lanka to the next level of development.
During the meeting, PF Executive Director Luxman Siriwardena stressed the importance of attracting Chinese direct investment to Sri Lanka, as the new government has placed priority on promoting direct investment and trade in place of loan financing.
Furthermore, he stated that the PF was keen to look at the constraints that the Chinese companies face in doing business in Sri Lanka and how such issues can be addressed. The need for skill development of the younger generation and strengthening people-to-people relations were also emphasised.
The CAITEC is an interdisciplinary and multifunctional social science research institution and a consultative body functioning directly under the Commerce Ministry of China. It undertakes research, information consultancy, publishing, education and training.
In fact, the Institute of Industry Development and Strategy, which the delegation represented, is the most renowned department in the institute and provides important information to the government regarding economic policies, free trade zones, bilateral trade agreements, BRI, etc.
Executive Director Investment Promotion Prasanjith Wijayathilake, together with Navodya of the Board of Investment (BOI) made an impressive presentation, both in English and Mandarin, on the investment climate in the country. They highlighted the priority sectors for which special incentives are provided by the BOI.
The Chinese delegation expressed its keen interest in long-term relations with the PF and undertaking detailed study on improving the climate for development of entrepreneurship and doing business in Sri Lanka. Both institutions agreed to continue the dialogue and develop a framework for future cooperation.