Hon. Bimal Rathnayake, Minister of Transport, Highways, Ports, and Civil Aviation, and Leader of the House of Parliament, has been elected Chair of the Sri Lanka-China Parliamentary Friendship Association for the Tenth Parliament.
The election took place at a meeting on the 21st, chaired by Hon. Speaker Dr. Jagath Wickramaratne, marking the re-establishment of the Association. Chinese Ambassador to Sri Lanka, HE Qi Zhenhong, was the chief guest at the event.
In addition to Minister Rathnayake’s appointment, Hon. Lakmali Hemachandra, Attorney at Law, was elected as the Secretary of the Association.
Hon. Speaker Dr. Wickramaratne highlighted the long-standing cultural and political relations between China and Sri Lanka, stressing the importance of the Association in strengthening ties in areas like trade, education, and technology.
He urged the new officials to actively work towards these objectives.
Ambassador Qi Zhenhong also underscored the significance of the Friendship Association in enhancing collaboration between the two countries, particularly in challenging times. He extended his best wishes to the newly elected officials.
Expressing gratitude for his appointment, Minister Rathnayake emphasized China’s longstanding support for Sri Lanka and the value of sharing China’s knowledge, especially in education and trade.
He called for the expansion of programs for young MPs to further bolster bilateral relations.
In the vote of thanks, Secretary Lakmali Hemachandra reiterated the Association’s commitment to strengthening Sri Lanka-China ties.
The event was attended by the Hon. Leader of the Opposition, Ministers, Deputy Ministers, Members of Parliament, and other dignitaries.
