Sun Shutao (R), mayor of Jinan, meets Sri Lankan Ambassador to China Dr Palitha Kohona on March 22 in Jinan, Shandong province. [Photo provided to english.jinan.gov.cn]

Sun Shutao, mayor of Jinan met a delegation led by Sri Lankan Ambassador to China Dr Palitha Kohona on March 22.

During the meeting, Sun said that Jinan is a famous historical cultural city and also a modern city full of development vitality. The city's favorable geographical location, rich resources, convenient transportation and strong industries provide favorable conditions for both sides.

Palitha said he was very optimistic of the development strength and innovation vitality in Jinan and pledged to make great efforts to deepen pragmatic cooperation between the two sides.

Sun also invited Palitha to the Pingyin Rose Cultural Festival, which will be held in Jinan this year, and hoped that such an exchange platform can deepen mutual understanding and cooperation between Jinan and Sri Lanka.

Pingyin county in Jinan is considered the home of Chinese roses. The rose processing products in the area have been exported to the United States, Japan, Singapore, Denmark, the Netherlands, Australia and 16 other countries and regions.