100 electric buses from China to Sri Lanka

Chinese Ambassador to Sri Lanka, Mr. Qi Zhenhong, stated that the Chinese government has taken steps to provide Sri Lanka with 100 electric luxury buses with the aim of minimizing environmental pollution. The Ambassador revealed this yesterday (22) after arriving in Kandy, meeting with the Mahanayake Theros of the Malwathu and Asgiri Chapters of the Shyamopali Maha Nikaya to receive blessings, and then speaking to the media.

The Ambassador stated that the value of each bus provided is approximately US $225,000, and that they are expected to be primarily deployed for operation in Colombo, Kandy, and Galle areas. He further stated that as the use of electric vehicles is widespread in China currently, maximum support would be provided to popularize electric vehicles in Sri Lanka as well.

The Ambassador, who met with the Mahanayake of the Malwathu Chapter, Most Venerable Thibbatuwawe Sri Siddhartha Sumangala Mahanayake Thero, and the Mahanayake of the Asgiri Chapter, Most Venerable Warakagoda Sri Gnanarathana Mahanayake Thero, pledged that China would provide full support to rebuild Sri Lanka's economy, which was affected by Cyclone Ditwa. Pointing out that they operate with mutual understanding with the current government, he also emphasized that China would stand by Sri Lanka in any time of disaster.

Following a request by the Sri Lankan government to reconstruct roads and bridges damaged in the Nuwara Eliya, Kandy, and Badulla districts, the Ambassador revealed that six experts have already arrived on the island to assess the situation. He also stated that China would provide assistance for these reconstruction efforts as a country possessing leading expertise and modern technology in the field of road construction globally.

The Chinese government has also focused special attention on the advancement of the education sector in this country, and the Ambassador recalled that 15 million meters of white cloth required for school children's uniforms have been provided this year. In addition, 900 smart classrooms have been provided for 500 schools, and he further mentioned that continuous support would be provided for the upliftment of education, economy, and businesses in the future.