Chinese Ambassador to Sri Lanka Qi Zhenhong reaffirmed China’s commitment to deepening bilateral relations with Sri Lanka while highlighting China’s economic progress and global role at the “Celebrating Chinese New Year with Warmth and Joy” Spring Festival reception held on February 9 at the Shangri-La Hotel, Colombo.
Addressing diplomats, government representatives, overseas Chinese and friends of China, the Ambassador said the Spring Festival—recently recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage—has become a global cultural bridge promoting harmony, goodwill and mutual understanding.
Reflecting on China’s achievements in 2025, Ambassador Qi noted that China’s GDP surpassed USD 20 trillion for the first time, with major advances in fields such as artificial intelligence, quantum technology and space exploration. He emphasized that China has remained a stabilizing force globally, promoting peace, dialogue and shared development through high-standard opening-up and Belt and Road cooperation.
On China–Sri Lanka relations, the Ambassador highlighted strong momentum following high-level exchanges between leaders of both countries, expanded cooperation in ports, agriculture, digital economy, tourism and culture, and continued Chinese assistance for livelihood projects and disaster relief in Sri Lanka.
Looking ahead to 2026, the first year of China’s 15th Five-Year Plan, Ambassador Qi pledged that the Chinese Embassy would continue to advance practical cooperation, protect the welfare of Chinese nationals, and work toward building a China–Sri Lanka community with a shared future.
He concluded by wishing prosperity to China, enduring friendship between the two countries, and peace, health and happiness to all in the Year of the Horse.
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