On July 30, Hon. Sunil Kumara Gamage, Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports of Sri Lanka, called on Ambassador Qi Zhenhong at the Embassy to bid him farewell.

Ambassador Qi thanked Minister Gamage and the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports for their valuable support for China-Sri Lanka youth exchanges and cooperation in sports and culture during his tenure. He noted that in recent years, the two sides have effectively enhanced cultural affinity and youth friendship between the two peoples through activities featuring Chinese cultural elements such as Tai Chi, martial arts, and dragon boat racing, injecting vibrant energy into the bilateral friendly relations.

Minister Gamage expressed his regret at Ambassador Qi's departure and thanked him for his contributions to deepening bilateral cooperation across various fields and enhancing the friendship between the two peoples. He noted that the practical cooperation between the two sides has not only strengthened mutual understanding but also laid a solid foundation of public support for the long-term development of bilateral relations, and expressed the hope that Ambassador Qi would continue to support the cause of Sri Lanka-China friendship and cooperation after his departure.