CSCEC employees celebrate traditional Sri Lankan New Year

China State Construction Engineering Corporation Sri Lanka Branch hosted on April 8 the 40th anniversary of China State Construction and the Sri Lankan traditional New Year, which fell on April 13 this year.

China State Construction Engineering Corporation (hereinafter "China State Construction") was formally established in 1982.

During the celebration, a Sri Lankan employee presented a piece of betel leaf to his Chinese colleagues to show his respect and best wishes. Chinese and Sri Lankan staff lighted the traditional Sri Lankan oil lamps to convey New Year blessings.

Sri Lankan employees introduced the Sinhala and Tamil New Year and shared their understanding of the Chinese Spring Festival. The historical origins of Sino-Sri Lanka friendship were shared during the event.

Sachini, the activity's planner, had studied in China and joined China State Construction as an administrative assistant last year. She said, "The two countries' New Years differ a lot in customs, but people's yearning for family gathering represented by the occasions are the same." She said, working for a Chinese company has deepened her understanding of Chinese culture.

Harshini, a Sri Lankan employee, said she has deeply felt the openness and diversity of the company's management philosophy. Different cultural customs are respected and talents are valued in China State Construction. Since last year, Harshini has taken a leading role in the videos of the Cloud Open Day. Based on her ability to speak English, she has opened a business English class on evenings to teach other employees the language.

While the local festivities may be different from that of the Chinese holidays, they are an unforgettable experience to Chinese employees. Zhao Xudong said the stories of Sino-Sri Lanka friendship shared by his coworkers at the event made him further appreciate his work.

"This year marks the 65th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and Sri Lanka, and also the 70th anniversary of the signing of the Rubber-Rice Pact. China State Construction has won recognition and respect by adhering to following the local customs, fulfilling social responsibilities and developing a friendship mutually with the host country," said Cheng Huaqiang, deputy general manager of CSCEC International South Asia.

"The company will continue to implement the Belt and Road Initiative and strengthen cultural exchanges between China and Sri Lanka, reaching a common development stage," he added.

The employees played traditional games that helped them better understand the cultures in both countries. Sri Lankan employees also received New Year gifts from China State Construction.