August 05, Colombo (LNW): In a significant gesture of solidarity, the Chinese government has extended a major humanitarian donation to Sri Lanka to assist in ongoing efforts to support communities affected by recent flooding across the country.
The aid package, valued at approximately Rs. 400 million, was formally handed over at a ceremony held in Colombo.
The contribution, delivered through the China Aid programme, includes an extensive range of emergency relief supplies such as tent kits, portable generators, water pumps, blankets, and other essential items designed to improve the immediate living conditions of those displaced or impacted by the severe weather.
The official handover took place in the presence of Chinese Ambassador Qi Zhenhong and Sri Lanka’s Secretary to the Ministry of Defence, Air Vice Marshal (Retired) Sampath Thuyacontha. The event served as a symbol of the continuing diplomatic partnership and humanitarian cooperation between the two nations.
Ambassador Qi, speaking at the ceremony, highlighted China’s readiness not only to provide material support but also to share technical knowledge in disaster preparedness, early warning systems, and climate monitoring. He expressed hope for future collaboration in these areas, particularly as natural disasters become more frequent and severe due to changing climate patterns.
Defence Secretary Thuyacontha, receiving the consignment on behalf of the Sri Lankan government, conveyed appreciation for the timely assistance. He remarked that the aid, amounting to 10 million yuan in value, arrives at a critical moment when the country is grappling with the aftermath of widespread flooding and landslides triggered by seasonal rains.
The relief materials are set to be distributed by the National Disaster Relief Services Centre in coordination with local district secretariats. Authorities have pledged that the aid will be delivered promptly to communities in need, especially in the most severely affected regions, where homes, infrastructure, and livelihoods have been heavily disrupted.
