Chinese Ambassador interrupted during visit to east

COLOMBO (News 1st); The Chinese Ambassador to Sri Lanka, Qi Zhenhong was confronted by a local during a visit to the Eastern part of Sri Lanka today (26).

During his speech, a local resident raised concerns over the situation in the country, however, the Ambassador said that the Sinhalese, Tamils and Muslims are all friends of China, and that he believes everyone should work together regardless of ethnic differences, to overcome the current crisis in the country.

Despite the interruption, the ambassador continued his comments, and reiterated that China will continue to help all Sri Lankans.

The Chinese Ambassador to Sri Lanka, Qi Zhenhong states that the Chinese Government has announced 500 million Chinese Yuan, equal to 76 million US dollars, as Government aid, as a grant to Sri Lanka.

The grant will be in the form of food, medicines as well as other urgently needed materials, the Ambassador stated.

He further said that one of the main reasons for his visit to the Eastern province is to donate 10,000 food packages which is supported by the Xinjiang provincial Government, while Red Cross China has already donated 48,000 US dollars in aid, he stated.

Moreover, the Ambassador said that there will be another 150,000 US dollars in aid, and that he believes here will be another third or fourth batch from the Chinese Red Cross.

Ambassador Qi Zhenhong also visited Kalmunai, the largest city of Ampara District and engaged in the distribution of goods to the locals.