Chinese Ambassador to Sri Lanka Qi Zhenhong is concluding his diplomatic mission after six years in the country, describing his tenure as the longest overseas posting of his career and one marked by deep friendship, shared challenges, and strengthened bilateral ties.

In a farewell message titled "Farewell, Ceylon; Together We Continue the Story Across Mountains and Seas," the Ambassador reflected on more than 2,000 days spent in Sri Lanka with his wife, Jin Qian, saying they leave with "gratitude and a deep reluctance to leave." He said Sri Lanka's natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and the warmth of its people had left a lasting impression on them.

Looking back on his tenure, Ambassador Qi highlighted the close cooperation between the two countries during the COVID-19 pandemic, Sri Lanka's economic crisis, natural disasters, and energy challenges, saying the two nations had consistently stood together in difficult times. He also pointed to expanding political, economic, cultural, and people-to-people ties as evidence of the growing strategic partnership between China and Sri Lanka.

The Ambassador also noted progress in several Chinese-backed development projects, including the Colombo Port City, Hambantota Port, the Central Expressway, healthcare facilities, affordable housing, and education initiatives. He said China would continue supporting Sri Lanka's development and deepen cooperation across sectors such as infrastructure, agriculture, tourism, technology, and the digital economy.

Expressing appreciation to the Sri Lankan Government, political leaders, media, businesses, Buddhist clergy, and the wider public for their support during his tenure, Ambassador Qi said he and his wife would always keep Sri Lanka in their hearts and continue contributing to the enduring friendship between the two countries.