China Donates Rs. 400 Million in Disaster Relief Equipment to Sri Lanka
August 05, 2025The People’s Republic of China has donated a consignment of disaster relief equipment worth over Rs. 400 million to Sri Lanka at a formal handover ceremony held today (Aug 5) at the Disaster Management Division in Colombo. Chinese Ambassador His Excellency Qi Zhenhong officially handed over the humanitarian aid to Defence Secretary Air Vice Marshal Sampatha Thuyacontha (Retd) at the ceremony held this morning.
The Defence Secretary, speaking at the ceremony, expressed deep appreciation for China’s continued support to Sri Lanka. The donation comes at a critical time as Sri Lanka continues to face frequent natural disasters, particularly floods worsened by climate change, he said. He noted that the equipment will be managed by the National Disaster Relief Services Centre and distributed through district administrations to ensure timely assistance for affected communities. Highlighting the strong bonds between the two nations emphasized that this gesture reflects China’s unwavering solidarity with Sri Lanka in times of need.
This substantial consignment of disaster relief equipment, valued at 10 million Yuan, includes foldable beds, portable sanitary facilities, mattresses, kitchen sets, gas burners, tents, Amano sheets, bedding, boats, life jackets, flood control units, water pumps, and other essential supplies.
China has previously extended financial assistance to support disaster management activities in Sri Lanka. This latest donation further underscores the enduring partnership between the two nations in humanitarian support and emergency preparedness, reflecting China’s continued commitment to strengthening Sri Lanka’s disaster management capabilities.
Additional Secretary of the Disaster Management Division, Mr. K.G. Dharmathilake; Director General of the Disaster Management Centre, Major General Sampath Kotuwegoda; Director General (Planning), Mr. W.S.S. Mangala; and Director of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism, Mr. D. Amanulla,Senior Assistant Secretary of the Disaster Management Division, Mr. Namal Liyanage attended the ceremony. They were joined by officials from the Chinese Embassy, including Counsellor Tang Yandi and Attaché Shi Zhen.
