By Rahul Samantha Hettiarachchi
COLOMBO — Concluding a six-year diplomatic mission, the Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Sri Lanka, Qi Zhenhong, alongside his spouse Jin Qian, issued a farewell message reflecting on six years of diplomatic service, mutual support, and bilateral cooperation between China and Sri Lanka.
Describing his time in Sri Lanka as the longest diplomatic posting of his career, Ambassador Qi highlighted the profound historical, political, and socio-economic ties that have continued to unite both nations.
“Over these 2,000 days, the bustling streets of Colombo, the sacred Cultural Triangle, the tea plantations, and the historic Galle Fort—along with the warmth of the Sri Lankan people—have left an indelible impression on us,” Ambassador Qi stated. “As we bid farewell, our hearts are filled with immense gratitude and a deep reluctance to leave.”
Strengthening Strategic Ties & Bilateral Cooperation
Recalling major developments during his tenure, Ambassador Qi emphasized that China and Sri Lanka have consistently stood together through challenging periods, including the COVID-19 pandemic, economic downturns, natural disasters like Cyclone Ditwah, and global energy fluctuations. He noted that both nations continue to carry forward the spirit of independence, self-reliance, and mutual assistance enshrined in the historic Rubber-Rice Pact.
High-level diplomatic exchanges, including interactions between Chinese leadership and Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake alongside Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya, have provided strategic guidance to further consolidate political mutual trust and expand economic cooperation.
The Ambassador pointed to major infrastructure and livelihood achievements under high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, including:
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Key Economic Hubs: Continued expansion and growth at the Colombo Port City and Hambantota Port.
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Infrastructure & Health: Full resumption of construction on Phase 1 of the Central Expressway, and the operation of the China-aided outpatient building at the National Hospital of Sri Lanka as well as the Friendship National Nephrology Hospital.
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Social Support: Assistance programs including school uniform fabric donations benefiting over 4.4 million students annually, digital transformation initiatives in education, nearly 2,000 units of affordable housing, and water purification projects.
Cultural Connections and Shared Future
Highlighting people-to-people and religious bonds, Ambassador Qi underscored the long-standing Buddhist connection dating back to Master Faxian and Master Tissara, noting that cultural exchanges, language initiatives, and community outreach have built lasting bridges of friendship between both nations.
Looking ahead to the upcoming 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Sri Lanka, the Ambassador expressed confidence in the future trajectory of bilateral relations.
“Partnering with China means embracing opportunities; believing in China means believing in tomorrow,” Ambassador Qi noted, reaffirming Beijing’s commitment to advancing industrial linkages, green energy, modern agriculture, and digital economy partnerships.
“Though mountains may separate us, we share the same clouds and rain. My wife and I are about to leave, but Sri Lanka will always remain in our hearts as we continue to support China–Sri Lanka friendship from afar,” he concluded.
