BEIJING, June 25 (Xinhua) -- Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Rohitha Bogollagama will pay an official visit to China from July 1 to 5 at the invitation of Chinese Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi.

    Foreign Ministry spokesman Qin Gang made the announcement here Thursday at a regular press conference.

    Qin highlighted the traditional friendship between China and Sri Lanka, noting that the two had already forged a comprehensive and cooperative partnership.

    Qin said the Chinese government is committed to developing its cooperation with Sri Lanka and will offer support for the nation to safeguard its independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity.

    "China always backs Sri Lanka's domestic reconciliation and peace process and will continue to play its positive and constructive role," Qin said.

    According to Qin, during Bogollagama's visit, the two sides will exchange views on China-Sri Lanka cooperation. The spokesman said he believed the visit will further consolidate cooperation with mutual benefits in many fields.