Christmas was celebrated at the Embassy of Sri Lanka in Beijing on 25th December 2021. Over 100 invitees, including the Sri Lanka community members, Chinese friends, media and the Embassy staff attended the event.

The programme commenced with an Opening Prayer by Brigadier Sylvester Perera, Minister Counsellor Defence, followed by the welcoming speech by H.E. the Ambassador Dr. Palitha Kohona. The Ambassador said that the celebration of Christmas emphasises peace, love, hope and harmony. The Covid-19 pandemic has affected all, irrespective of the size of the economy and the population. Specially, Sri Lanka has been facing severe economic challenges as a result of the Covid - 19. Now is a time for all Sri Lankans to unite to overcome these challenges as we have done previously. He, further, said that the Embassy has been and is playing an important role in attracting investments and increasing Sri Lanka exports to China. He asked investors and businesses to consider Sri Lanka as their preferred destination. He hoped that more Chinese friends will visit Sri Lanka as soon as the Chinese border controls are relaxed.   

The bright lights at the Embassy extended an ambiance and feeling of Christmas with the chill in the air. Christmas carols were sung by the Embassy staff and their family members.  

The event was enhanced by gifts of presents to children by Santa Clause. It concluded with all guests being treated to a Sri Lankan dinner. 

Embassy of Sri Lanka 

Beijing

27 December 2021