Minister of Export Development and International Trade of Sri Lanka, Prof GL Peiris today revealed that the Chinese government has confirmed its earlier agreement to fund five projects in the country. Speaking at a media briefing in Colombo, the Minister told that the Chinese government has given its confirmation to provide 455 million US dollars for the construction of the Norochcholai Coal Power Plant during the recent official visit of President Mahinda Rajapaksa to China. According to the Minister, China has agreed to provide 20 million US dollars to build a drama and cultural centre, and another 307 million for the Hambanthota harbour project. Also, he said China has agreed to provide 100 railway carriages for the improvement of local railway service. Minister Peiris said that bilateral discussions have already started between the two governments to seek another 467 million US dollars to build Katunayake- Colombo highway, Kadawatha- Kiribathgoda road, and the second stage of the Hambanthota harbour project.