A Boeing 777-300ER jet painted in the theme for the China International Import Expo (CIIE) has enchanted Sri Lankans recently.

The special flight from the China Eastern Airlines touched down at the Bandaranaike International airport in the country's capital on Friday evening with the mission to promote the expo and also highlight China-Sri Lanka trade, economic cooperation, and friendship.

The aircraft is gaily painted in blue, prominently displaying the insignia of the China International Import Expo Bureau, organizer of the trade event.

The CIIE's theme -- "New Era, Shared Future" and the mascot -- giant panda "Jinbao" painted on the aircraft were eye-catching. As the protagonist of the expo, "Jinbao" was shown holding the four-leaf clover, in an expression of blessing.

The third CIIE is slated to be held in November in Shanghai. China Eastern Airlines is the designated air carrier for the event.

Earlier, Prabhash Subasinghe, chairman of the Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB) expressed high expectations from the CIIE when he met with Yang Zuoyuan, commercial counselor of the Chinese Embassy in Sri Lanka.

Subasinghe said that the CIIE in Shanghai would enable China to open its market and promote trade. The expo will also be a platform for other countries to showcase their development achievements and discuss global economic and trade issues.

The EDB will arrange for local enterprises to actively participate in the CIIE, Subasinghe assured.

China is a very important trading partner for Sri Lanka. According to local media, Sri Lankan exporters and producers from the apparel, spices, fresh fruits, and other food & agriculture product sectors are expecting to explore the lucrative Chinese market.