From 28 to 29 June, Qi Zhenhong, the Ambassador of China to Sri Lanka, embarked on a visit to Uva Province to extend China’s assistance and pay homage to a national hero. During his visit, Ambassador Qi distributed dry ration boxes to 1,500 needy families from diverse communities and paid tribute to the statue of Keppetipola Disawe in the remote town of Keppetipola, Badulla.
The visit commenced on the morning of 28 June at the historic Muthiyangana Temple in Badulla, where Ambassador Qi joined Most Venerable Warakagoda Gnanarathana, Mahanayake Thero of the Asgiri Chapter, in a distribution ceremony. The Chinese Buddhism Association and temples generously provided dry rations donations for 500 families from various communities. Dignitaries from across Uva Province were also present at the ceremony, which garnered immense significance due to the participation of the Mahanayake Thero.
Furthermore, distribution ceremonies were arranged for the coming two days at the Boralanda Temple in Welimada and the Yudaganawa Temple in Buttala, ensuring aid reached more families in need.
While fulfilling his charitable duties, Ambassador Qi made a special visit to Keppetipola, a secluded town known for its historical significance. Accompanied by local government officials, Bhikkhus, and primary school students, Ambassador Qi paid tribute to Keppetipola Disawe, an eminent national hero. Wreaths were laid at the statue of Keppetipola Disawe, with a ribbon carrying the inscription, “Tribute to heroes who fought bravely for independence and freedom against colonization and invasion—by Embassy of China in Sri Lanka.”
During his remarks, Ambassador Qi highlighted the purpose of his visit—to openly extend China’s continuous support to the Sri Lankan people in their fight against domestic and external challenges. He emphasized the rich history of over 2,000 years of relations and Buddhist friendship between China and Sri Lanka. Ambassador Qi acknowledged that both peoples have always learned from and supported each other.
Drawing attention to the prevailing Covid-19 pandemic and the economic crisis faced by Sri Lanka, Ambassador Qi expressed China’s solidarity with the Sri Lankan brothers and sisters. The Chinese central government, local authorities, ministries, and social organizations have extended assistance in various forms, including vaccines, medicines, rice, fuel, school uniforms, and school bags. These efforts have been warmly welcomed and widely praised by all segments of Sri Lankan society.
“As a good brother, good friend, and good partner of Sri Lanka, no matter the past, present, or future, no matter what difficulties and challenges you encounter, the Chinese people will always stand with you,” stated Ambassador Qi. He expressed confidence in Sri Lanka’s ability to overcome its temporary economic difficulties, highlighting the nation’s indomitable spirit and its history of triumphing over foreign invasions, terrorism, tsunamis, and other disasters.
Moreover, Ambassador Qi underscored the heroic nature of the Sri Lankan people. As Sri Lanka commemorates its 75th anniversary of independence, his visit to Uva Province, the birthplace of the first major rebellion against British colonial rule two centuries ago, held special significance. Qi paid tribute to Keppetipola Disawe and other leaders of the rebellion, praising their fight for independence and freedom against colonization and invasion.
Ambassador Qi also addressed the present and future challenges faced by both China and Sri Lanka, emphasizing the persistence of neo-colonialism and hegemonism. He reaffirmed China’s commitment to international fairness and justice, advocating true multilateralism and opposing any form of hegemonism, unilateralism, protectionism, or bullying. Qi stressed that deeper cooperation and stronger friendship between China and Sri Lanka would safeguard Sri Lanka’s sovereign independence, foster economic and social development, and ensure the preservation of its unique civilization. Such developments would also encourage other forces to engage with Sri Lanka on equal, respectful, and reciprocal terms.
Concluding his remarks, Ambassador Qi expressed China’s willingness to work hand in hand with the Sri Lankan people in pursuit of common development, confronting challenges together, and promoting the construction of a community with a shared future for mankind.
The visit of Ambassador Qi Zhenhong to Uva Province in Sri Lanka symbolizes the continued solidarity and cooperation between China and Sri Lanka, reinforcing their long-standing relations and commitment to mutual support and development.
