The ancient city Pingyao, which is located in the Shanxi Province of China, is considered the most preserved ancient city in the Han Chinese cultural area of China.
The city, which boasts of a history of over 2,700 years, and portrays the evolution of architectural styles and town planning in Imperial China over five centuries, was named as UNESCO World Heritage site in 1997.
The city, which covers a total area of 2.25 sq. kilometres, still maintains its historical appearance from the times of the Ming and Qing dynasties.
There are over 100 streets and alleys as well as 3,797 traditional residential houses in the city, with preserved historical characteristics.
The city was a financial center in China from the 19th century to the early 20th century.
Post covid-19, the city is coming back to life not only due to its awe inspiring architecture that had stood the tests of time, but also with modern elements such as shops selling various merchandise, theatrical performances and seasonal festivals.
All elements, historic and contemporary, have woven a tapestry of unique beauty, making it a popular tourist hotspot in Shanxi province.
Minister of Foreign Affairs – Vijitha Herath has stated that Sri Lanka has signed 15 MoUs with China today (Jan. 15) after talks between the Presidents of the countries.
In a video statement, he said that these MoUs are important to the economy, education, media and cultural landscape of Sri Lanka and that the island nation will enjoy host of benefits.
He also said that the Chinese President – Xi Jinping had pledged to provide continuous support to Sri Lanka.
The official meeting between President Anura Kumara Disanayake and Chinese President Xi Jinping commenced a short while ago at at 05.00 pm Chinese time at the Great Hall of the People.
It is also expected that several Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) will be signed following bilateral discussions between the two Presidents.
Previously, preparations made for a special welcome ceremony for visiting Sri Lankan President, the official meeting and signing ceremony are as follows :
President Anura Kumara Disanayake, who departed for an official state visit to China at the invitation of Chinese President Xi Jinping, has arrived at Beijing International Airport today (14) at 10:25 am Beijing time.
Upon his arrival, the President was accorded a ceremonial welcome by the Chinese military, and he was formally received by China’s Deputy Foreign Minister Chen Xiaodong and Sri Lankan ambassador to China – Majintha Jayesinghe.
The President is accompanied by a high-level delegation, including the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment, and Tourism, Vijitha Herath, the Minister of Transport, Highways, Ports, and Civil Aviation, Bimal Rathnayake and the Director General of Government Information, H.S.K.J. Bandara.