Friday Mar 18, 2011
First Lady Shiranthi Rajapaksa speaking at the ‘Sri Lanka - the Wonder of Asia’ cultural evening organized in Beijing, said that cultural interactions provided a perfect setting to develop peace, harmony and friendship between countries and also through this concert and it was Sri Lanka’s intention to present to the people of Beijing a glimpse of the rich and diverse cultural traditions of Sri Lanka.

Enchanting the guests with a glimpse of the wonders of Sri Lanka and her timeless culture and civilization, this event was organized for the 4th consecutive year on March 10, 2011 at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in Beijing

It was a celebration of the National Day of Sri Lanka and the 54th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations with the People’s Republic of China.

Foreign Affairs Asstant Minister Hu Zhengyue, who represented the Chinese Government on this occasion, commended the efforts taken by the Government of Sri Lanka to further strengthen the close bilateral relations between China and Sri Lanka.

The dance troupe of Channa - Upuli Performing Arts Foundation brought to life the ancient and contemporary dance forms of Sri Lanka.

The delectable spice infused Sri Lanka cuisine served by the Chef from the Colombo Hilton further enhanced the magic of the evening.

A display of Sri Lanka’s niche products, such as pure Ceylon Tea, Gem stones and tropical fruits, were attractively arranged at the foyer combined with displays from independent travel bloggers of China who often educate the Chinese public about Sri Lanka on their blogs.

In recognition of the social and community services done by the All China Women’s Federation and in appreciation of the remarkable support extended by them to uplift the livelihoods of underprivileged Sri Lankan women and children, the Sri Lanka Embassy presented a cash donation of RMB50,000 to Meng Xiaosi, Vice President of the All China Women’s Federation who was present at the occasion.

The evening was also used as a platform in recognizing the community services done with the leadership of First Lady Shiranthi Rajapaksa, by presenting her charity organization Siriliya Saviya with US $ 50,000.

Apart from creating a positive atmosphere to enhance mutual understanding and goodwill between people of both countries, the evening was also a catalyst in imparting further positive momentum to the consolidation of bilateral friendly ties between Sri Lanka and China.

Speaking at the event, Ambassador Karunatilaka Amunugama stated that Sri Lanka, under the guidance of President Mahinda Rajapaksa, has now embarked upon a multi pronged strategy initiating a series of socio-economic development activities which would bring prosperity, unity and harmony to the people of Sri Lanka. Adding that China was featured prominently amongst many other friends of Sri Lanka.

He also thanked the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau, SriLankan Airlines and well-wishers for the assistance extended in presenting the cultural evening.

The event was well represented by a distinguished gathering of over 500 special invitees comprising diplomats and senior officials of the Chinese Government, the business community, tourism and Chinese media.

Source: DAILY NEWS