'A True Friend Holds an Umbrella in the Rain' - Chinese Envoy

COLOMBO (News 1st); 'A true friend holds an umbrella for you in the rain.' - These words, spoken by Chinese Ambassador to Sri Lanka Qi Zhenhong, set the tone for a donation programme held at Koratota Sri Somananda Maha Vidyalaya in Kaduwela, where China provided educational materials and dry rations to support underprivileged students and families.

Under the initiative, the People’s Republic of China donated school books, learning materials, school bags, notebooks and pencils worth Rs. 1.6 million, along with dry ration packs for 200 low‑income families struggling with economic difficulties.

The programme took place under the patronage of Ambassador Qi, who emphasised the importance of education and the enduring friendship between the two nations.

'China and Sri Lanka are good friends. We care about each other. Education is very important because it helps children build their future. No matter how difficult life is, children should always have a chance to learn. China has always supported education development in Sri Lanka,' said the Ambassador.

“Today, we bring school bags, notebooks, and pencils for students with a total value of Rs. 1.6 million. We also prepared a food package for some families who need support. Sri Lanka says a true friend holds an umbrella for you in the rain. In the past, Sri Lanka supported China. Today, we are happy to support you as friends. China will continue to work together with Sri Lanka and strengthen our friendship. Long live China–Sri Lanka friendship,” he added.

Officials added that the support aims to ease economic burdens, promote equal learning opportunities.