In accordance with the MOU signed between the Department of Archaeology, University of Kelaniya Sri Lanka and School of History and Culture, Sichuan University, China in 2016 and 2017, a series of discussions were held with regard to archaeological research pertaining to China - Sri Lanka historical relations.

The discussion were held during 4th to 7th April 2019 and Prof. D.M.Semasinghe, Vice Chancellor, Dr. Mangala Katugampola Head, Department of Archaeology and Mr. W.M. Karunarathna, Registrar  represented the University of Kelaniya while the Prof. Yan Shijing, Vice Chancellor, Prof. Huo Wei, Dean, School of History and Culture, Prof. Li Yingfu, Vice Dean, School of History and Culture in Sichuan University, Director, International Affairs and several professors represented the Sichuan university.

The main focus of this discussion was the excavation project at ancient Mantai port which is scheduled to be started in mid 2019. It was decided to start project in July or August this year. Further, the importance of closer ties between the two universities was emphasized during talks between the two vice chancellors. it was also discussed the possibility of initiating a student exchange program in accordance with agreements between the two countries and based on the initiative of Prof. D.M.Semasinghe, Vice Chancellor, University of Kelaniya. Accordingly it was decided to give an opportunity for 15 students who study archaeology in University of Kelaniya to attend a workshop on usage of field archaeological equipment at Sichuan University in 2020.