On January 24, Ambassador Qi Zhenhong led a team toattend the “Culture and Care for Young Hearts, Together in Friendship” school supplies donation event at the Castlereagh Tamil School in Nuwara Eliya, a region in central Sri Lanka that was severely affected by the disaster. The team donated school supplies to students and food packages to the underprivileged families. Mr. Weerasinghe,General Secretary of the Communist Party of Sri Lanka, along with over 300 teachers, studentsand parentsattended the event.

Ambassador Qi Zhenhong stated that China has always paid attention to the development of Sri Lankan people's livelihood, especially the growth of children. The recent Cyclone Ditwah caused significant casualties and property damage in the Central Province. The Chinese people deeply empathize with this tragedy and have been among the first to extend a helping hand. It is hoped that this donation will help local students and their families overcome temporary difficulties, enabling children to study with peace of mind and grow up healthy.

Weerasinghe and representatives of the teachers and students expressed their gratitude to the Chinese Embassy for its generous donation, stating that China is a trustworthy friend that has always extended a helping hand when Sri Lanka encounters difficulties. They also noted that in recent years the Chinese government has provided Sri Lankan students with free school uniform materials, and expressed their sincere appreciation to China for its continued support and assistance, while wishing for the enduring friendship between the two countries.