Chinese Ambassador to Sri Lanka, Qi Zhenhong, has addressed criticisms labeling Chinese-funded projects in Sri Lanka as “white elephants,” emphasizing that all such initiatives were implemented at the request of the respective governments in power.
During a meeting with media representatives on November 28, the Ambassador highlighted inefficiencies in the operation of some projects as the reason for their underutilization. He cited the Colombo Lotus Tower as an example, noting its recent profitability after being leased to a private company and its status as a symbolic landmark for Sri Lanka.
He also underscored the potential of Chinese-funded infrastructure projects, including the Hambantota International Port and the Colombo Port, to significantly boost government revenue. Additionally, the Colombo Port City project was highlighted as being entirely financed by Chinese investments, with no cost incurred by Sri Lanka.
Addressing concerns over a so-called “debt trap,” Ambassador Qi dismissed such allegations, asserting that Chinese investments were rooted in the longstanding friendship between the two nations, aiming to support Sri Lanka’s independence without external pressures.
On the delay in signing the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between China and Sri Lanka, despite seven rounds of negotiations, the Ambassador attributed the hesitation to unfounded fears of Chinese market dominance. He reassured that the agreement, if signed, could be amended by the Sri Lankan government after a year if any unfavorable conditions arose.
Ambassador Qi reiterated China’s unwavering support for Sri Lanka, referencing China’s assistance during Sri Lanka’s challenges at the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) in Geneva, the Covid-19 pandemic, and the ongoing economic and disaster-related crises. He expressed optimism about the future of bilateral relations under the current government.
