China’s Shaky Bet on the Rajapaksa Family

China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi (l) in an earlier meeting with former Sri Lankan Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa, image via Xinhua

Since Sri Lanka’s ruling Rajapaksa family’s hurried exit as their country descended into chaos, China has been notably quiet. Official responses have been late. When he responded, Zhao Lijian, the Foreign Ministry spokesperson, only said:

“China pays great attention to the development of the situation in Sri Lanka. We sincerely hope that all sectors in Sri Lanka can keep in mind the fundamental interests of the country and its people, stay united, uphold stability and tide over difficulties together.”  

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by Cobus van Staden

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