Honouring Our Legacy and Advancing People-to-People Friendship
It is with great honour and a deep sense of responsibility that I extend this message to all members, partners and well-wishers of the Sri Lanka–China Friendship Association (SLCFA), as well as to friends across both nations and around the world who value peace, mutual respect and international cooperation.
The Sri Lanka–China Friendship Association stands as the pioneer and oldest people-to-people friendship organisation dedicated to strengthening relations between our two countries. Established in 1950, shortly after the founding of the People’s Republic of China, SLCFA began its journey well before the signing of the historic Rubber-Rice Pact in 1952 and the establishment of formal diplomatic relations in 1957. Guided by the principles of equality, solidarity, cultural understanding and mutual benefit, SLCFA continues to play a visionary role in promoting goodwill, trust and long-term collaboration between our two nations.
Our friendship, often described as time-tested, unshakable and mutually supportive, has been nurtured through shared values, civilisational links and sincere cooperation that transcends political and economic boundaries. It is rooted in genuine people-to-people diplomacy — a bond created and strengthened by educators, intellectuals, diplomats, community builders, youth and professionals over more than seven decades.
Honouring Our Legacy of Leadership
We proudly honour the distinguished past Presidents whose vision and dedication shaped the course of our Association and strengthened the lasting ties between Sri Lanka and China:
- Madam Kusuma Gunawardena – Founding President
- Madam Theja Gunawardena – Second President
- Mr. Wilmot A. Perera – Third President
- Mr. A. B. Perera – Fourth President
- Dr. K. L. V. Alagiyawanna – Fifth President
- Mr. S. W. Walpita – Sixth President
- Mr. Ratne Deshapriya Senanayake – Seventh President
- Mr. Ananda Goonatilleke – Eighth President
Their wisdom, patriotism and unwavering commitment represent a priceless legacy that continues to inspire every step of our journey forward.
Continuing the Mission
As we look toward the future, SLCFA remains firmly committed to:
- strengthening and expanding educational, cultural and humanitarian exchange,
- providing opportunities for youth engagement, learning and leadership,
- creating platforms for dialogue, collaboration and international friendship, and
- promoting a spirit of peace, unity and shared prosperity.
- The world increasingly recognises that sustainable diplomacy is not built solely through government-to-government relations, but through human relationships, shared values and mutual respect. In this spirit, the Sri Lanka–China Friendship Association will continue to serve as a trusted bridge of understanding, cooperation and goodwill, honouring our remarkable heritage while empowering a new generation to carry this noble mission forward.
Together, let us strive for an era where friendship becomes a strength, cooperation becomes a habit and progress becomes a shared reality for both nations.
Aruna Goonatilleke
President
Sri Lanka–China Friendship Association (SLCFA)