The Sri Lanka–China Friendship Association (SLCFA) proudly announced the establishment of its Galle District Branch, following a successful Annual General Meeting (AGM) held on 13th September 2025 at the Aradhana Hotel in Galle. The event marked a significant milestone in expanding SLCFA’s grassroots presence and promoting stronger people-to-people ties between Sri Lanka and China.
The meeting was graciously welcomed and convened by Mr. Ajith Kumara, a respected civil activist and Attorney-at-Law, whose commitment and initiative laid the foundation for reviving the district branch after several decades. His leadership has been instrumental in gathering community interest and mobilizing local support toward strengthening Sri Lanka–China relations.
Representing SLCFA at the inauguration were:
- Mr. Prasad Wijesuriya – General Secretary
- Mr. Sudath Krishantha – National Executive Committee Member
- Ms. Manorama Weerasinghe – National Executive Committee Member
The ceremony was also attended by several senior members of SLCFA who had been part of the Galle District Branch decades ago. Their presence added great value and a sense of continuity, bridging the rich legacy of the past with the renewed commitment of the present.
Keynote Address by General Secretary Mr. Prasad Wijesuriya, at the Inauguration Ceremony of the Galle District Branch of the Sri Lanka–China Friendship Association
Mr. Wijesuriya delivered an inspiring and comprehensive keynote address, reflecting on the profound history of Sri Lanka–China friendship and the important role of the newly formed Galle District Branch. The following are highlights from his speech:
He began by expressing his heartfelt joy at witnessing this historic moment and conveyed sincere gratitude to Mr. Ajith Kumara for his unwavering dedication in making the Galle District Branch a reality. On behalf of the SLCFA President Mr. Ananda Goonatilleke and the National Executive Committee, he extended warm congratulations to the new branch leadership and its members.
He recalled China’s long history of resilience and the transformative role played by leaders such as Chairman Mao Zedong, whose vision led to the founding of the People’s Republic of China in 1949. One year later, on 21st September 1950, the Sri Lanka–China Friendship Association was founded, recognizing the importance of fostering deep and meaningful ties between the two nations.
Mr. Wijesuriya honored the pioneering leaders of the organization, including Madam Kusuma Gunawardena, the first President of the then Ceylon–China Friendship Union, and Madam Theja Gunawardena, a renowned social worker, writer, diplomat, and advocate of international cooperation.
He highlighted one of the greatest milestones in bilateral relations: the Rubber-Rice Agreement of 1952, signed during a period of economic hardship for Sri Lanka. The agreement—despite external pressures—symbolized mutual trust, courage, and shared commitment, benefiting both nations and laying a strong foundation for future cooperation.
He then recounted the Association’s evolution, including its renaming in 1973 following the proclamation of the Republic of Sri Lanka. Over the decades, SLCFA has upheld its mission of promoting friendship, cultural exchange, mutual understanding, and people-to-people dialogue.
Under the guidance of the current President, Attorney-at-Law Mr. Ananda Goonatilleke, SLCFA continues to expand its outreach—supporting academic cooperation, cultural programs, and nationwide initiatives that strengthen bilateral ties.
Mr. Wijesuriya emphasized the importance of district branches as essential pillars of the Association’s future. The newly formed Galle District Branch, he noted, will serve as a vital platform for local students, professionals, community leaders, and civil society to engage meaningfully with China and contribute to longstanding friendship.
He concluded by congratulating the new branch and encouraging its members to carry forward the noble mission of the Association with commitment and unity. “Together,” he stated, “let us continue to strengthen the bonds of friendship between Sri Lanka and China for the prosperity and wellbeing of our peoples.”
The formation of the Galle District Branch marks an important expansion of SLCFA’s national footprint and reinforces its vision of fostering deep-rooted and enduring relations between the people of Sri Lanka and China. The Association extends its warmest wishes to the new branch for continued success in the years ahead.
