The 78th National Independence Day of Sri Lanka celebration is held in Guangzhou on February 9, 2026.
Themed "Rebuild Sri Lanka," the 78th National Independence Day celebration was organized by the Consulate General of Sri Lanka in Guangzhou on February 9, 2026.
During her speech, Lashinka Dammullage, Consul General of Sri Lanka in Guangzhou, noted that rebuilding Sri Lanka was not simply about restoring what was lost, but about building back better, which implies creating a nation that would be stronger, more resilient, and better prepared for the future.
Dammullage stated that Sri Lanka was moving forward with renewed purpose and inclusive development.
Delicate handicraft articles from Sri Lanka are on display on shelves in Guangzhou on February 9, 2026.
Notably, Dammullage expressed sincere appreciation for China's swift and generous assistance, including financial support, essential relief supplies, and contributions through humanitarian and business partners.
She highlighted the 2000-year Sri Lanka–China relations, shaped by trade, culture, and people-to-people ties.
"Today, this partnership extends across investment, infrastructure, tourism, education, innovation, and cultural exchanges," she added.
A girl from Sri Lanka performs local dances at the celebration in Guangzhou on February 9, 2026.
Currently, as the Consul General introduced, the country is positively working to expand exports, promote domestic products in China, and position Sri Lanka as a vibrant destination for Chinese travelers and investors alike. She warmly invited more Chinese people, especially in Guangdong Province, to experience it firsthand — to invest in and do business with Sri Lanka.
China is now Sri Lanka's second-largest trading partner and second-largest source of imports. Bilateral trade between the two sides surged by over 30 percent year-on-year in 2024, reaching $5.36 billion. China's exports accounted for $4.97 billion, while imports from Sri Lanka totaled $392 million.
Sri Lanka and China will celebrate 70 years of diplomatic relations in 2027 — a milestone, as Dammullage noted. "We look forward to commemorating in a meaningful way that reflects the strength, trust, and promise of our partnership," she added.
Reporter | Zhang Ruijun
Photo | Zhang Ruijun
