Chinese ambassador in Colombo – Mr. Qi Zhenhong has stated that Chinese enterprises are interested in investing in the Northern Province.

He has said this during a visit to the Northern Province from Nov. 05 – 07, to donate 5,000 boxes of dry rations worth Rs. 37.5 million under the “Faxian Charity Project” to needy families in Jaffna, Vavuniya, Mullaitivu, Kilinochchi, and Mannar. 

Ten donation ceremonies were held in district secretariats, Buddhist temples, Hindu  Kovils and churches, benefiting a large number of local people.

This was the ambassador’s second visit to the province.

Referring to a report recently released by Trincomalee Center for Strategic Studies, which raised concerns after claiming that China is selling seafood to Sri Lanka, the ambassador said, “Last month, President Wickremesinghe paid a successful visit to China, reaching an agreement with President Xi Jinping to facilitate the export of Sri Lankan seafood to China. China is the second largest economy with a huge market. We look forward to importing more seafood from Sri Lanka instead of exporting them to you. Chinese enterprises are interested in investing in the Northern Province and I hope you will welcome and support them.”

By emphasizing the friendly relations of the two countries, Ambassador Qi further mentioned that the Chinese government has promised to donate Rs. 150 million to the Northern Province to buy food rations, fishing nets, and to build housing units.

Ambassador Qi Zhenhong stated, “China and Sri Lanka enjoy a longstanding traditional friendship which has withstood the test of the time. No matter what difficulty and challenge our Sri Lankan friends encounter, China has stood and will always stand firmly with you and provide assistance to the best of our capability.” 

“Love rises above differences in race and belief, and kindness transcends boundaries and borders. China’s friendly policy to Sri Lanka treats all people equally regardless of their ethnicity, faith, or region. Whether you are Sinhalese, Tamil, Buddhist or Muslim, China is always your good brother, good partner, and good friend,” he added.

Ambassador was warmly welcomed by the locals with traditional dancing and ceremonies. Local authorities, officials, red cross society, fishermen society, and people from all walks of life provided important assistance to ensure the success of the visit. 

(X handle of Chinese embassy in Colombo)