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Interview: 65 years on, Senanayake family remembers China-Sri Lanka rubber-rice pact

Xinhua, April 5, 2017 Adjust font size:

China has been providing Sri Lanka with support and assistance in various fields ever since the signing of the famous Rubber-Rice Pact between the two nations 65 years ago, Chathuka Senanayake said.

Chathuka, grandson of one of Sri Lanka's most popular politicians -- R.G. Senanayake who signed the pact in 1952, made the comments in a recent interview with Xinhua.

"China and Sri Lanka have always shared very cordial relations even before the start of their diplomatic ties and my grandfather knew China would be one of the world's most powerful nations some day," Chathuka said.

Back in 1952, Sri Lanka was facing a severe shortage of rice and R.G. Senanayake, the then minister of trade and commerce, made great efforts to secure the agreement which even 65 years later is still spoken about and valued by both nations.

This year marks the 60th anniversary of the establishment of the diplomatic ties between the two nations as well as the 65th anniversary of the signing of the pact, Chathuka said, highlighting that the pact "has benefitted both the countries."

Chathuka, 32, who never met his grandfather, said he realized the importance of the agreement from tales narrated to him by his grandmother and by other foreign and local political leaders. He is proud of his grandfather's achievements and the ties he shared with China.

"My grandfather realized that China would be a strong trading partner. And amidst great opposition in Parliament, he made a speech saying that with 500 million people in China and with the nation being an Asian giant, China is bound to be significant in the future. He had that foresight at that time," Chathuka said.

"My grandfather also saw a lot of potential between both countries ... I am sure he saw great potential in the Sri Lanka and China ties," he added.

Chathuka's mother, Surani Senanayake, also remembers the great achievements of her father-in-law -- R.G. Senanayake. She adds that although those achievements were made several decades ago, China has not forgotten the late politician's family.

Sixty-five years later, Chinese politicians and officials still visit the Senanayake's in remembrance of late R.G. Senanayake. Surani and Chathuka have also maintained close Chinese ties in Colombo and considered China a dear good friend of Sri Lanka. Endit