The Chinese minister of National Defence, General Liang Guanglie met President Rajapakse in Colombo on Wednesday.

The president thanked China for standing by Sri Lanka during difficult times and for “cultural cooperation” and “forthcoming economic assistance”.

Reports suggest that China is planning to pledge US$ 100 million to fund Sri Lankan Army projects in the northeast of the island.

Gen Guanglie is leading a 23-strong delegation - made up of several high-ranking military officials - on a five day visit to Sri Lanka and is expected to visit military facilities in the north of the island.

“Since the establishment of bilateral diplomatic relations, China-Sri Lanka friendship has withstood the test of international vicissitude and we have always maintained good cooperation,” the General said, speaking at during an event at the defence college in Colombo.

“We all know that since the beginning of its reform and opening-up, China's overall national strength and international influence have grown remarkably."

"Some people in the international community suspect that China would take the road of expansion with force, and have been actively spreading the ‘China Threat Theory’.”

“Today, we are glad to see that under the leadership of the Sri Lankan government, the diligent, intelligent and kind-hearted Sri Lankan people are united in their efforts of maintaining domestic political stability and actively conducting post-war construction. Great achievements have been made.”