Sri Lanka, Oct. 15 -- A high-level delegation from China's Sinopec Group has assured Minister of Foreign Affairs Vijitha Herath, that the company will expedite the commencement of the proposed oil refinery project in Hambantota.

The delegation, led by Sinopec Vice Chairman Liu Liangong and comprising ten senior officials, met Minister Herath today (15) at the Ministry to discuss the progress of the refinery project and address outstanding issues. The refinery, estimated at a value of USD 3.7 billion, is expected to produce up to 200,000 barrels of oil per day once completed.

Vice Chairman Liangong expressed appreciation for Minister Herath's assistance in resolving many of the long-standing issues that had delayed the project for years....