HIPG Co-Hosts Chinese New Year Cultural Showcase in Hambantota

Hambantota International Port Group (HIPG), together with the Chinese Embassy in Sri Lanka, the District Secretariat of Hambantota, and the Hambantota Municipal Council, successfully co-hosted a special cultural performance titled “2026 Colourful Yunnan: Rendezvous in Sri Lanka” at the Magam Ruhunupura International Convention Centre (MRICC) in Hambantota.

The event formed part of a series of performances organised by the Chinese Embassy to celebrate the upcoming Chinese Lunar New Year and to strengthen cultural and people-to-people ties between China and Sri Lanka. The Yunnan Provincial Song and Dance Ensemble presented a vibrant artistic showcase reflecting the rich cultural traditions of China’s Yunnan Province.

The Hambantota performance followed two well-received shows held earlier in Colombo. It marked a significant extension of the cultural programme to Sri Lanka’s Southern region, bringing international performing arts directly to the local community.

The event was attended by the Chinese Ambassador in Sri Lanka, Qi Zhenhong, Indrajith De Silva, District Secretary and Government Agent of Hambantota; D.A. Gamini, Mayor of Hambantota and Wilson Qu, CEO of HIPG. Senior government officials, diplomatic representatives, and invited guests also attended.

HIPG CEO Wilson Qu said the port’s role as a co-host reflected its commitment to being more than just a logistics and maritime hub. “Hambantota International Port is proud to support initiatives that promote cultural exchange and community engagement. As an international gateway, HIP aims to foster not only trade and investment but also meaningful connections between people and cultures,” he said.

The performance featured a dynamic blend of traditional music, dance, and theatrical storytelling, drawing strong audience participation and appreciation from attendees in Hambantota and surrounding areas.

The cultural programme is part of broader efforts to deepen bilateral relations through arts, culture, and social engagement, highlighting the shared values of friendship, harmony, and cooperation between the two countries.

Beyond cultural celebration, initiatives such as this play an important role in strengthening goodwill, which can directly impact business and investment. By building trust and mutual understanding at the community level, cultural exchanges help create a more positive environment for long-term partnerships, trade, and collaboration. HIPG’s support for such programmes reflects its belief that strong people-to-people ties complement economic development and contribute to sustainable, inclusive growth around the port.