The Spirit of the Dragon-Horse: Ambassador Qi Zhenhong Inaugurates 2026 Chinese New Year Celebrations in Colombo
COLOMBO – Highlighting the millennia-old “evergreen” friendship between China and Sri Lanka, Chinese Ambassador H.E. Qi Zhenhong officially launched the 2026 “Happy Chinese New Year” celebrations at the Nelum Pokuna Theatre on Tuesday night.
The grand opening ceremony was attended by the Speaker of the Parliament of Sri Lanka, Hon. Jagath Wickramaratne, alongside distinguished guests and members of the Chinese community, marking the lead-up to the Year of the Horse on February 16.
A Bridge of Harmony
In his keynote address, Ambassador Qi emphasized that the Spring Festival has transcended national borders, especially since its UNESCO inscription as a masterpiece of human heritage. He noted that the ‘Happy Chinese New Year’ activities have now taken root in over 100 countries, fostering a global dialogue of “Joy, Harmony, and Sharing.”
“It serves not only as a window for the world to understand China but also as a bridge fostering global civilization dialogue and mutual learning,” the Ambassador stated.
Showcasing the Beauty of Yunnan
The evening featured a breathtaking cultural display by the Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture from China’s Yunnan Province. Ambassador Qi introduced the audience to the unique aesthetics of the Bai ethnic culture, known for the poetic scenery of “Wind, Flower, Snow, and Moon.”
Performances included:
- The traditional melody “By the Butterfly Spring.”
- The aesthetically subtle dance “Flowing Stream.”
- The vibrant and rhythmic “Octagonal Drum and the Rattle Stick.”
Galloping Toward National Rejuvenation
Symbolizing the upcoming Lunar Year of the Horse, Ambassador Qi spoke of the “spirit of the dragon-horse”—a metaphor for tenacity and an indefatigable positive attitude. He drew a parallel between this Chinese cultural symbol and the “diligent, courageous, and optimistic” spirit of the Sri Lankan people.
“I sincerely hope that in the galloping Year of the Horse 2026, both China and Sri Lanka will forge ahead and achieve new and greater accomplishments on their paths of national development,” Ambassador Qi concluded, envisioning a boundless future for bilateral cooperation.
The 2026 celebrations will continue with various cultural events across the island, strengthening the bond between the two “reliable partners who stand together through thick and thin.”
