Six years ago, bearing the trust and expectations of General Secretary Xi Jinping, carrying with me the profound friendship of the Chinese people, and shouldering the noble mission of elevating China-Sri Lanka relations to a new height, I arrived in Sri Lanka—the “Pearl of the Indian Ocean.” This vibrant land, with its beautiful natural scenery, rich historical and cultural heritage, and warm and kind-hearted people, has left a deep impression on my wife, Jin Qian, and me. The warmth and friendship of the Sri Lankan people have touched us deeply. I also felt deeply honored by the mission entrusted to me and keenly aware of the great responsibility it carried.Six years have passed in the blink of an eye. This has been the longest diplomatic posting for both of us. As we bid farewell, looking back on this unforgettable, fulfilling, and extraordinary journey, our hearts are filled with gratitude and a deep reluctance to leave.

Over these 2,000 days, the bustling streets of Colombo, the serene and sacred Cultural Triangle, the misty and lush tea plantations of the up-country, the historic Galle Fort where the East meets the West, the ancient sites echoing with millennia-old heroic legacies, the distinctive local cuisine, and the culturally vibrant festivities—all have shown us this land’s exceptional natural endowments, splendid civilization, and magnificent history. My wife and I have also had the privilege of meeting many sincere friends from Sri Lanka’s government, parliament, political parties, media, think tanks, Buddhist community, civil society, and youth groups. Together, we have written a new chapter in carrying forward the traditional friendship between China and Sri Lanka and created countless beautiful memories.

This journey has witnessed China–Sri Lanka friendship become as deeply rooted and flourishing as the Sacred Bodhi Tree. China and Sri Lanka have a long history of friendly exchanges which have grown stronger over time. The moving stories of the ancient Silk Road from thousands of years ago have transcended mountains, seas, and the passage of time.

Today, they continue to flourish and shine with renewed vita