Sri Lanka has sought China’s support to strengthen its green transport infrastructure, with a proposal to establish an islandwide electric vehicle (EV) charging network as the country prepares for a major shift towards electric mobility.
Foreign Affairs Minister Vijitha Herath raised the proposal during discussions with Chinese Ambassador to Sri Lanka, Qi Zhenhong, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs this morning (29), highlighting the government’s plans to import electric vehicles in large numbers, including electric buses, in the coming years.
The Minister emphasised that the availability of a nationwide charging network would be essential to support the transition to cleaner transport and reduce dependence on fossil fuels. Ambassador Qi Zhenhong responded positively and said the proposal would be communicated to the Chinese government.
The meeting also focused on post-disaster recovery, with Minister Herath requesting urgent Chinese assistance to rebuild railway lines and bridges damaged by the ongoing floods. The Ambassador agreed to bring the request to the immediate attention of his government.
Additionally, Ambassador Qi Zhenhong said he intends to assess the damage caused by Cyclone Ditva and discuss potential areas of assistance with the Chinese government to support Sri Lanka’s recovery efforts across key sectors.
