In a significant move to foster deeper ties between China and Sri Lanka, the Embassy of Sri Lanka in China took a monumental step on July 26th. They launched the “Belt and Road Ambassador Scholarship,” a symbol of their unwavering commitment to bolstering the humanistic exchanges and cooperation that already bind these two nations.
The ceremony was more than a mere announcement. It was a testament to the collaborative spirit between the two countries. This scholarship, targeted for Sino-Sri Lankan student exchanges in the upcoming 2023 academic year, unveiled a comprehensive roadmap that meticulously detailed the evaluation work plan, the timeframes within which the scholarship recipients would be awarded, and an in-depth breakdown of the financial support that would be extended to these students. A highlight of the event was the unanimous election of the Sri Lankan Ambassador to China, Palitha Kohona, to the esteemed position of the chairman of the Evaluation Committee.
Ambassador Kohona’s words at the ceremony echoed the sentiments of unity and progression. Emphasizing the essence of the scholarship, he stated, “The Belt and Road Ambassador Scholarship is not just about academics or finance. It’s a call to adapt to the ever-evolving nature of global travel, a response to the clarion call of forging a globally integrated community. Our goal is to champion educational and cultural exchanges, especially among developing nations that align with the Belt and Road vision.”
But his vision wasn’t just limited to the academic corridors. Ambassador Kohona expressed a fervent hope that the scholarship would resonate far beyond the walls of educational institutions. He voiced a desire for more entities – businesses, organizations, and individuals alike – that hold peace, cooperation, and mutual development at their core to step forward. By actively partaking in this endeavor, they would not only be championing education but would also be contributing toward mutual goodwill, collaborative growth among nations, and, above all, the shared progress of people globally.
This significant scholarship initiative is not just an educational beacon. It’s an emblem of the longstanding friendship between China and Sri Lanka, particularly in the realm of Belt and Road educational exchanges. By offering students from both countries the opportunity to broaden their horizons, to immerse in diverse cultures, and to build academic and personal bridges, this scholarship serves as a powerful catalyst. It promises to infuse renewed enthusiasm into the bilateral camaraderie between China and Sri Lanka, helping young minds actualize their global aspirations and development ambitions.
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