The China Cultural Center in Sri Lanka, in collaboration with the Nanjing Municipal Bureau of Culture and Tourism, recently hosted a spectacular series of events to commemorate the Mid-Autumn Festival in Sri Lanka. The Mid-Autumn Festival, also known as the Moon Festival or Mooncake Festival, is a cherished tradition in Chinese culture, ranking among the most important holidays and standing shoulder to shoulder with Chinese New Year.

The festivities unfolded over a five-day period, from Friday, September 22nd, to Monday, September 25th, 2023, taking place in the enchanting cities of Kandy and Colombo.

The main events held in Kandy and Colombo were a dazzling display of cultural diversity, featuring traditional Sri Lankan and Chinese performances, captivating art and photographic exhibitions, and enchanting tea ceremonies. The celebration was not only a feast for the senses but also an opportunity for elite speakers to delve into the significance of Mid-Autumn Day and celebrate the strong cultural bonds shared between China and Sri Lanka.

The centerpiece of the celebration occurred on the 25th of September at the Chinese Cultural Center in Colombo 07 and was graced by the presence of His Excellency, the Chinese Ambassador to Sri Lanka. Joining him was Madam Xia Jun, Director of the Nanjing Municipal Bureau of Culture and Tourism, who added an extra layer of significance to the occasion.

Among the distinguished attendees were a diverse audience consisting of both Sri Lankan and Chinese nationals. The event welcomed esteemed guests from the Sri Lankan government, delegations from the Nanjing Municipal Bureau of Culture and Tourism, officials from the Chinese embassy in Sri Lanka, as well as Sri Lankan university students and other well-wishers. The collective presence of these esteemed individuals underscored the significance of the event and the strong cultural ties it celebrated.

One of the most noteworthy highlights of the evening was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Nanjing Municipal Bureau of Culture and Tourism and the National Library of Sri Lanka. This MOU marked the inception of the 'Window of Chinese Books' initiative, through which a collection of valuable Chinese books will be donated to enrich the cultural resources available in Sri Lanka.

The Mid-Autumn Festival celebration organized by the China Cultural Center in Sri Lanka and the Nanjing Municipal Bureau of Culture and Tourism was a resounding success, fostering cultural exchange, understanding, and cooperation between China and Sri Lanka. It served as a testament to the enduring friendship between the two nations and their commitment to promoting cultural richness and diversity.

Mr. W. Sunil, Director General of the National Library and Documentation Services Board speaking at the ‘Window of Chinese Books’ event at the National Library Auditorium

Ms. Xia Jun, Deputy director of Nanjing Municipal Bureau of Culture and Tourism speaking at the ‘Window of Chinese Books’ event at the National Library Auditorium

Councillor Zhu Yanwei, Deputy head of Mission - Chinese embassy in Sri Lanka

Mr. W. Sunil, Director General of the National Library and Documentation Services Board and Ms. Li Haiyen, Deputy Director of Jinlin Library in China, exchanging agreements for the ‘Window of Chinese Books’ initiative

Image Caption : Mr. W. Sunil, Director General of the National Library and Documentation Services Board and Xia Jun, Deputy director of Nanjing Municipal Bureau of Culture and Tourism.