Assisting Sri Lanka During Times of Crisis Is Our Duty: Chinese Ambassador

25-Jan-2026

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Chinese Ambassador to Sri Lanka Qi Zhenhong stated that China is ready to provide full cooperation to help rebuild Sri Lanka’s economy, which has been severely affected by Cyclone Dithva.

The ambassador made these remarks during discussions with the Mahanayake Theras of the Malwathu and Asgiriya Chapters during his visit to Kandy.

Addressing the Mahanayake of the Malwathu Chapter, Thibbatuwawe Sri Sumangala Thera, the ambassador said that assisting Sri Lanka during times of crisis is China’s responsibility, as the two countries share a close friendship. He added that a six-member team of Chinese experts specializing in highways and bridges has arrived in Sri Lanka to oversee the rapid reconstruction of bridges damaged by natural disasters.

He also announced that the Chinese government has donated 15 million meters of fabric for school uniforms for Sri Lankan students.

During his meeting with the Mahanayake of the Asgiriya Chapter, Warakagoda Sri Gnanarathana Thera, the ambassador said China is prepared to provide extensive assistance to Sri Lanka’s education sector, including upgrading 900 classrooms in 500 schools into modern classrooms.

Additionally, China is ready to supply 100 electric buses to help reduce air pollution. The value of the buses is estimated at USD 225,000. He reaffirmed that China remains committed to assisting Sri Lanka in overcoming the challenges caused by Cyclone Dithva.

Speaking to the media afterward, the ambassador noted that Sri Lanka and China have maintained close ties since the early days, and relations have strengthened further following the formation of the new government. He recalled that both the President and Prime Minister visited China officially last year, during which several agreements and programs were discussed. China expects these agreements to be implemented swiftly for Sri Lanka’s development.