COLOMBO, June 13 (Xinhua) -- Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaka met the visiting Chinese Vice Premier Zhang Dejiang on Saturday with the two leaders vowing to enhance the two countries' cooperation in the areas of politics, economy, trade and culture, among others.

     On behalf of his government and people, Rajapaksa appreciated China's generous help to Sri Lanka's economic and social development.

     Rajapaksa said Sri Lanka will continue to strictly adhere to the one-China policy and make efforts to bring the two countries' friendly cooperation to a new stage.   

     Zhang said the two countries' relationship, based on the five principals of peaceful coexistence, has developed smoothly since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1948.

     He said the two countries support each other politically and enjoy a mutually beneficial economic relationship.

     The Chinese vice premier said both China and Sri Lanka have new challenges and important opportunities in the area of development, adding that China will firmly support Sri Lanka's peace, stability and development.

     Zhang said China would join hands with Sri Lanka to continue to develop the two countries' comprehensive cooperation partnership.