China values its time-tested ties with SL - Ambassador

Rasika Somarathna

Chinese ambassodor Wu Jianghao yesterday said his country attached great importance to its time-tested relationship with Sri Lanka.
He said the two countries have supported each other in times of need and will continue to do so in the future. He also acknowledged the growing mutual political trust and close support extended by both countries in international and regional affairs.

Ambassodor Jianghao made the observations after donating US $ 50,000 to the Sri Lanka Red Cross Society(SLRCS) on behalf of the Red Cross Society in China to help efforts by SLRCS to assist the recent flood affected.

On the occasion, the Chinese Ambassodor recalled with appreciation the solidarity extended towards the Chinese people during the time of the Sichuan earthquake in 2008 and the humanitarian assistance rendered by Sri Lanka.Whilst noting that the quake had caused unprecedented destruction and had claimed more than 80,000 lives, the Ambassodor recalled with appreciation President Rajapaksa’s visit to the Province of Sichuan in the company of Speaker Chamal Rajapaksa to convey his personal sympathies to the people in the quake hit area and to extend support at the time.

He said both countries were prone to natural disasters from time to time and highlighted the importance of supporting each other in times of need. SLRCS Director General Tissa Abeywickrema while appreciating the donation from China, said the funds will further boost his organizations efforts to assist the recent flood affected. He also invited the Ambassodor to come and witness some of the organizations ongoing efforts in this regad.

“The latest wave of floods and landslides in late December affected more than 400,000 people in 16 districts. Bad weather caused extensive damage to both man and property. More than 40 lives were lost and 4,172 houses were completely damaged and 10,457 houses partially damaged,” he said.