The Sri Lanka–China Friendship Association (SLCFA) successfully hosted a high-level meeting with a delegation from the Shanghai Fengxian District People’s Government on 16th September 2025 in Colombo. The visit marked a significant step forward in strengthening cooperation, fostering friendship, and expanding people-to-people engagement between Sri Lanka and China.
The delegation was led by Mr. Yao Zhaohui, Vice Chairman of the Shanghai Fengxian District People’s Political Consultative Committee. He was accompanied by a distinguished team of officials, including:
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Ms. Chen Jing – Director, Overseas Chinese Affairs Office, Shanghai Fengxian District People’s Government
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Mr. Gu Weixing – Deputy Secretary General, Shanghai Fengxian District People’s Political Consultative Committee
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Mr. Li Ruizhong – Director, Shanghai Fengxian District Haiwan Tourism Zone Management Committee
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Mr. Tu Junping – Director, Subdistrict Office of Xidu Street, Shanghai Fengxian District
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Mr. Xu Shangcheng – Deputy Mayor, Nanqiao Town, Shanghai Fengxian District
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Ms. Yao Qifei – Corporate Representative
Representing the Sri Lanka–China Friendship Association were:
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Mr. Ananda Goonatilleke – President
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Mr. Aruna Goonatilleke – Executive Vice President
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Mr. Thilak Botheju – Vice President
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Mr. Prasad Wijesuriya – General Secretary
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Ms. Chinta Goonatilleke – Assistant Secretary
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Mr. Tharindu Suresh – Assistant Treasurer
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Ms. Manorama Weerasinghe – Committee Member
The purpose of the Shanghai delegation’s visit was to foster deeper friendship, enhance exchange, and build meaningful connections with SLCFA as a long-standing partner in advancing Sri Lanka–China relations. During the discussions, the delegates expressed a strong interest in learning about the latest developments in Sri Lanka across several key sectors, including:
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Aquatic products
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Ceylon tea
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Latex and rubber-based industries
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Gem and jewellery
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Luxury wellness and tourism
The delegation shared their willingness to explore potential cross-border collaborations, strengthen trade and investment pathways, and identify opportunities for mutual benefit in these areas. They emphasized Shanghai Fengxian District’s readiness to work closely with Sri Lankan counterparts to promote cooperation in emerging industries and enhance people-to-people connectivity.
SLCFA leadership warmly welcomed the delegation’s interest and reiterated the Association’s commitment to supporting initiatives that deepen bilateral engagement at regional and community levels. The meeting provided a platform to exchange insights on economic potential, cultural ties, and future cooperation frameworks that would benefit both parties.
Both sides agreed that this engagement holds significant value for strengthening the relationship between Sri Lanka and China. The meeting is expected to pave the way for future collaboration, promote shared prosperity, and contribute to the continued development of friendship between the Sri Lankan and Chinese people.
The SLCFA looks forward to furthering these discussions and supporting productive partnerships with the Shanghai Fengxian District in the months ahead.
