We are working to promote water sports throughout the island from north to south, east to west.
Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Sunil Kumara Gamage.
The China-Sri Lanka Friendship Dragon Boat Championship organized by NACKSL – National Association of Canoeing and Kayaking of Sri Lanka was held yesterday (May 31) at the Diyawanna Rowing Center with the participation of 25 teams. The Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Sunil Kumara Gamage, Deputy Minister of Youth Affairs Eranga Gunasekara, Chinese Ambassador, Mr. Qi Shanhong were present on this occasion.
The winners of the China-Sri Lanka Friendship Dragon Boat Championship were presented with trophies and certificates, and the People’s Republic of China donated five dragon boats worth 5 million to the country.
Participating in the event, Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Sunil Kumara Gamage said that the China-Sri Lanka Friendship Cup Championship and the Dragon Boat Festival are a strong symbol of friendship, culture and cooperation between the two countries.
On behalf of the Government of Sri Lanka and the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, he thanked the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China for donating five dragon boats to the country, and said that this unique gift will help take a significant step forward in the promotion of water sports in Sri Lanka.
The Minister further expressed his appreciation for the students from Jaffna schools who participated in this championship, saying that it is a symbol that promotes national unity, and that he is proud of the courage, talent and dedication shown to represent the region.
The Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports said that he hopes to expand and promote water sports throughout the island from north to south, east to west, opening avenues for the youth of the country to water sports such as rowing, kayaking or dragon boat racing, as well as boosting tourism.
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