‘Tea for Harmony’ in Colombo (Pics)

A Chinese cultural event was held in Colombo yesterday (May 22), featuring cultural components from the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous region located in Southern China.

Titled ‘Tea for Harmony – Yaji Cultural Salon 2024’, the event showcased a catwalk featuring Guangxi ethnic wear , a Guangxi pictorial tour exhibition, traditional song and dance performances by China and Sri Lanka.

The event, which coincided with the International Tea Day, featured an intangible cultural heritage tea art experience as well as tea products from both countries.

The event was attended by a host of distinguished guests including Chinese ambassador to Sri Lanka – Mr. Qi Zhenhong and Madam Jin Qian, Speaker of Sri Lankan Parliament – Mr. Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena and Mr. Lai Fuqiang – Level-I Counsel of the Department of Culture and Tourism of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region.

Addressing the gathering, the Chinese ambassador – Mr. Qi Zhenhong said that tea has become a significant medium for people in China and around the world to connect and be friends.

He added, “The people of China and Sri Lanka share a long history of growing, making, tasting and drinking tea, fostering exchanges and mutual learning. Though tea is produced in different places, it derives from a common source. Tea has become a common part of lifestyle of the two peoples and an important link to connect and bring them closer. I hope that everyone here today will enjoy a delightful cup of tea, watch the performances, and enjoy the wonderful time. I believe that tea, as a medium today, will further promote cultural exchanges between the two countries and strengthen the friendship between the two peoples.”

(Pics : Shanika Jayasekara)