Blessing in Hard Times: Sri Lanka Remembers hinese Ambassador Qi Zhenhong’s Service
As Chinese Ambassador Qi Zhenhong concludes his six-year diplomatic mission in Sri Lanka, a wave of appreciation has swept across the island nation. For many Sri Lankans, his tenure represented much more than formal diplomacy; it was a period of steadfast support during the country’s most severe economic crisis, a time when his personal engagement and China’s assistance made a tangible difference.
When Sri Lanka ran out of foreign exchange to finance essential imports in 2022, it faced acute shortages of food, fuel, and medicine, culminating in a sovereign default on its $46 billion foreign debt . Ambassador Qi’s role was pivotal during this period. He highlighted a five-point assistance plan from China, which included support for Sri Lanka’s debt settlement and its crucial negotiations with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) .
A key obstacle to securing the IMF’s $2.9 billion bailout was the need for financial assurances from creditors, with China being Sri Lanka’s largest bilateral creditor . As you noted, this was a significant hurdle. Reports confirm that China played a crucial role in this process. A letter from the Export-Import Bank of China, signaling a willingness to restructure loans, helped clear the final barrier, allowing Sri Lanka to proceed with the IMF program . While details of the deal were not fully publicized, Sri Lankan officials confirmed China’s commitment to assist in the debt restructuring process . This was a critical, if difficult, step toward economic recovery.
A Diplomat for the People
Beyond the high-level negotiations, Ambassador Qi's legacy is deeply rooted in his personal connection with the Sri Lankan people. His farewell message, titled “Farewell, Ceylon: Together We Continue the Story Across Mountains and Seas,” reflects on his journey and the deep bonds formed over more than 2,000 days .
He and his wife traveled extensively across the country, visiting temples, kovils, and mosques, embodying a spirit of inclusivity . In an unprecedented gesture, the Chinese Embassy donated to Muslim communities during Ramadan and hosted Vesak festival celebrations, honoring the nation's diverse religious fabric. mbassador Qi also engaged with political leaders from all parties, including the Tamil National Alliance and the National People's Power (NPP) before the 2024 election, earning respect for his cordial and approachable demeanor.
His commitment to grassroots welfare was evident in a series of “small yet beautiful” projects. Under his patronage, China donated school uniform fabric for four consecutive years, benefiting over 4.4 million students . He also launched the "Chinese Ambassador Scholarship" for students , supported healthcare with hospitals and outpatient buildings, and donated to communities in need . His efforts were lauded by religious leaders, including the Mahanayake Theras of the Malwathu and Asgiriya Chapters, who commended his contribution to the country's economic, educational, and cultural sectors .
In his farewell, Ambassador Qi noted the ongoing cooperation, including projects like the Colombo Port City, Hambantota Port, and the reconstruction of cyclone-damaged infrastructure, which will continue to contribute to Sri Lanka’s future . For a nation that faced such immense hardship, his tenure is remembered as a period of genuine solidarity, earning him the heartfelt gratitude of many Sri Lankans.