Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employement and Tourism Vijitha Herath attended the Chinese New Year Reception hosted by H.E. Ambassador Qi Zhenhong and Mme. Jin Qian at Shangri-La Colombo, celebrating the Year of the Horse.
Extending new year wishes, the minister emphasised that for Sri Lanka China is a valued partner over the years and he further appreciated China's contribution and cooperation for the development processes of Sri Lanka. He reaffirmed that while moving forward in path of economic growth and sustainable development, Sri Lanka look forward to strengthen relations with China in a manner that is mutually beneficial, transparent and align with the aspirations of both nations.
Minister’s Full Speech
Honorable Ministers and Deputy Ministers,
His Excellency Qi Zhenhong, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Sri Lanka,
Excellencies,
Distinguished Guests,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
It gives me great pleasure to join you this evening to celebrate the Chinese Lunar New Year, known as the Spring Festival, which has long been the most cherished celebration in China. This occasion is not only a time of joyous reunion and renewal but also a profound expression of China’s cultural heritage spanning over 4000 years.
I wish to extend warmest felicitations and best wishes to His Excellency Xi Jinping, President of the People’s Republic of China, the Government and people of the People’s Republic of China, and to the Chinese community in Sri Lanka and abroad, as we usher in the year of the Fire Horse.
The Spring Festival marks the transition from winter to spring and reflects a deep respect for nature, renewal, and the rhythm of life. Over generations, it has served as a festival to honor the past, express gratitude, and look to the future with hope. At the heart of the Spring Festival is the emphasis on family and togetherness. The tradition of reuniting with loved ones at the start of the New Year reflects a sentiment deeply familiar to us in Sri Lanka. The Sinhala and Tamil New Year in Sri Lanka is a time when families gather and traditional rituals are observed to usher in peace and prosperity. The exchange of good wishes and gifts, the sharing of festive meals, and celebrations filled with color, music, and joy, all express our shared wish for harmony, well-being, and a positive beginning.
In China and in Sri Lanka alike, the New Year is also a moment to drive away negativity, welcome renewal and vitality, and set resolutions for the year ahead. These shared cultural aspects remind us that, despite the diversity of our traditions, we are united by common values, respect for family, and community spirit.
Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen,
This year marks the Year of the Fire Horse, a symbol of strength, passion, courage, and dynamic energy. These qualities inspire us to pursue progress with determination and resilience.
Sri Lanka and China share an enduring close relationship over 2000 years, rooted in shared values, ancient trade, maritime links, cultural exchanges, and mutual respect. In modern times, this relationship has flourished into a multifaceted partnership characterized by close cooperation in political, economic, cultural, and people-to-people spheres.
China has been a valued and trusted friend to Sri Lanka, extending support during critical moments of our history and contributing significantly to our development efforts. Sri Lanka is grateful for the steadfast support extended by the People’s Republic of China to Sri Lanka, including during the recent weather conditions that affected the entire country as well as continued cooperation for infrastructure development, trade, investment, tourism, education, and technological sectors.
As Sri Lanka moves forward on its path of economic growth and sustainable development, we look forward to further strengthening our ties with China in a manner that is mutually beneficial, transparent, and aligned with the aspirations of both our peoples.
Cultural ties such as today’s celebration play a significant role in bringing our people closer together. The growing interest in language, education, tourism, and cultural cooperation between Sri Lanka and China is a testament to the deepening ties and understanding between our societies.
As we welcome the year of the Fire Horse, I wish that the coming year will bring peace, good fortune, and prosperity to the Government and people of the People’s Republic of China. May our bilateral relations continue to flourish in the years ahead. By embracing the spirit of the Fire Horse, marked by ambition and dynamic progress, Sri Lanka and China can work together benefiting both our peoples.
I thank His Excellency Qi Zhenhong, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Sri Lanka for the invitation to be here and for the warm hospitality. I wish you all a happy, prosperous, and auspicious Chinese Lunar New Year.
Thank you.
