The Chinese embassy in Colombo recently hosted a reception for a group of Sri Lankan officials who had attended an experience exchange programme in China.
The group, which included 28 officials across 13 government offices, had joined a seminar on Experience Exchange in the Field of Economic Development and Poverty Alleviation in Beijing and had visited the provinces of Hebei and Zhejiang afterwards.

The reception, held on April 25 at the Port City Colombo, was also attended by the Chinese ambassador to Sri Lanka – Mr. Qi Zhenhong and Secretary to the President of Sri Lanka – Mr. Nandika Kumanayaka.

Addressing the gathering, the ambassador said that the reception was “not just a celebration of the successful completion of the Seminar,” but is “a continuation of our friendship.”

“The success of Chinese modernization shows clearly that modernization does not mean Westernization. All roads lead to Rome. Every country can walk its own path, based on its own history, values, and strengths. Moreover, Chinese modernization was not achieved through colonial expansion or exploitation of others—it was built by the hardworking hands and brilliant minds of the Chinese people. Sri Lanka also boasts a proud and resilient people, abundant natural resources, and a unique geographic advantage. I have every confidence that you can chart your own course toward a brighter future,” he added.

The full speech of the ambassador is as follows:

Good evening! Ayubowan!

I’m honored and delighted to get together with you all here at Colombo Port City, a shining symbol of the high-quality Belt and Road cooperation between China and Sri Lanka. This remarkable project is not only an engine for Sri Lanka’s economic growth, but also a reflection of the country’s aspirations for a brighter future.

Just now, I had the pleasure of hearing heartfelt reflections from participants of the recent seminar in China. Your sincerity and passion were truly touching. 28 officials across 13 different ministries or institutions of Sri Lanka participated in the China-Sri Lanka Seminar on Experience Exchange in the Field of Economic Development and Poverty Alleviation held from 23rd March to 5th April. For many of you, it was the first time visiting China. I learned that you not only attended enriching lectures and exchanges in Beijing, but also visited Hebei and Zhejiang provinces, engaging directly with local governments, businesses and communities. I believe you have not only gained valuable insights about China, but also met lots of new friends from China. This Seminar was not just about learning－it was about connection. The bonds you built echo the deep and enduring friendship between our two countries, and I’m confident they will blossom into even closer cooperation in the future.

 Dear friends,

Sri Lanka gained independence in 1948. The People’s Republic of China was founded one year later. For many years, Sri Lanka outpaced China in social and economic development. It was only when China embraced reform and opening-up that we discovered a path of development that truly suited our national conditions. Step by step, this path led us to the remarkable progress we see today. Now, under the guidance of President Xi Jinping, we are continuing this journey through high-standard opening up and high-quality development.

The success of Chinese modernization shows clearly that modernization does not mean Westernization. All roads lead to Rome. Every country can walk its own path, based on its own history, values, and strengths. Moreover, Chinese modernization was not achieved through colonial expansion or exploitation of others—it was built by the hardworking hands and brilliant minds of the Chinese people. Sri Lanka also boasts a proud and resilient people, abundant natural resources, and a unique geographic advantage. I have every confidence that you can chart your own course toward a brighter future.

I already see that Sri Lankan people, under the leadership of President Dissanayake, are working tirelessly to write a new chapter of national renewal. As your long-tested and trusted brother and partner, no matter what challenges you encounter, the Chinese people and Chinese government will firmly stand with you.

Of course, development is never easy. Alongside self-effort and resilience, it also depends on a supportive and stable external environment. Unfortunately, now we are facing growing headwinds, as the US recently took the unilateral step of imposing so-called “reciprocal tariffs” on all its trading partners, including China and Sri Lanka. These actions are reckless, disruptive, and particularly damaging to developing countries depending heavily on open and stable global trade.

China cannot and will not stand idle in the face of such tariff bullying and power politics, because history has taught us a hard truth: appeasement does not bring peace, and compromise does not earn respect. China has no choice but to stand firm, take action, and respond with strong countermeasures. This is not only about defending our own legitimate rights and interests, but also about standing up for fairness and justice, upholding the rules-based international order, and safeguarding the development rights of all nations. If we let international trade return to the “law of the jungle” where the strong prey on the weak, all nations will suffer—and it will be the smaller, more vulnerable nations that suffer the most. We believe justice will prevail in the end.

Dear friends,

Tonight is not just a celebration of the successful completion of the Seminar. It is a continuation of our friendship. My colleagues and I are always here to offer our support whenever needed. I sincerely hope that each of you will carry forward the spirit of your China tour and play an even bigger role in strengthening friendship and cooperation between our two countries.

Wish you all a joyful evening and every success in your important work ahead.

Thank you!

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