The Annual General Meeting of the Monaragala District Branch of the Sri Lanka–China Friendship Association (SLCFA) was successfully held on 28 August 2025 at the historic Yudaganawa Rajamaha Viharaya premises, under the patronage of the Incumbent of the temple, Most Venerable Nandarathana Thero.
The event brought together around forty-five participants representing various parts of the Monaragala District, reflecting the strong and growing interest in fostering people-to-people friendship and cooperation between Sri Lanka and China.
In the welcome address, the Monaragala Branch extended special appreciation to the President of the main Association, Attorney-at-Law Mr. Ananda Goonatilleke, acknowledging his continuous guidance, encouragement, and dedicated support in sustaining and strengthening SLCFA activities within the district. The branch members also expressed their gratitude for the patronage extended to regional initiatives by national leadership.
Election of the New Board of Officers
A new board of officers for the upcoming year was unanimously elected during the meeting. The appointments are as follows:
- Patron – Most Venerable Nandarathana Thero, Incumbent of Yudaganawa Rajamaha Viharaya
Co-Patron – Mr. R. M. Seneviratne (Former Principal, Dutugemunu Central College) - President – Mr. Ruwan Wijeweera Gunaratne (Member of Parliament)
- Vice-President – Mr. Anupama Dikkumbura
- Secretary – Mr. M. Hemawansha
- Deputy Secretary – Mr. Sanjaya Seneviratne
- Treasurer – Mr. Thushara Priyadarshana
- Chief Organizer – Mr. Charitha Bandara
Message from the SLCFA President
A congratulatory message from the President of the Sri Lanka–China Friendship Association, Attorney-at-Law Mr. Ananda Goonatilleke, was formally presented to the gathering by the Co-Patron of the Monaragala District Branch, Mr. R. M. Seneviratne. The message highlighted the importance of provincial branches in strengthening grassroots-level friendship and mutual understanding between the two nations.
Special Address on China–Sri Lanka Friendship
A notable segment of the AGM was a special presentation delivered by Mr. Anupama Dikkumbura, who recently participated in the World Youth Peace Conference in China. He shared valuable insights on China’s global role, the significance of youth engagement, and the long-standing friendship between China and Sri Lanka.
Following discussions on several special proposals aimed at enhancing district-level engagement, the meeting concluded on a positive note, reaffirming the commitment of the Monaragala District Branch to further strengthen bilateral ties through cultural, educational and friendship-building initiatives.
