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SOUTHERN MESSENGERS 22

Vlogger’s notes— Friendship without borders
传播官手记—— 友谊无国界

By Sugath 苏嘎特 / 文

I believe that every young person of our generation has ant, without extreme heat in summer or harsh cold in winter. highest recognition given by Yunnan Province to foreign
their own way of connecting with the world. My “China At the same time, Yunnan is one of the world’s top biodi- friends, an acknowledgment that truly warms my heart.
story” began in 2016, when I joined China Radio Interna- versity hotspots, acclaimed as the “Kingdom of Animals,” Opportunities in China, particularly in Yunnan, are abun-
tional in Beijing as a foreign expert. As for my story with “Kingdom of Plants,” and “Kingdom of Flowers”—a true dant. It is worth remembering that Yunnan serves as the
Chinese higher education, it started in 2020, when I became paradise on earth. gateway to South and Southeast Asia. Moreover, during Sri
a lecturer at the School of Foreign Languages, Yunnan Uni- When it comes to food, Yunnan cuisine is rich and di- Lanka’s most difficult times—the pandemic and the eco-
versity. verse, often with a spicy touch, quite similar to Sri Lankan nomic crisis—Yunnan stood firmly by our side.
I still remember that it was midnight, the air was cool, food. Each ethnic group brings its own traditional dishes. To Now, I would like to share a few words with the young
and the lights were soft. When I arrived at Kunming Chang- be honest, even if I spent my whole life here, I doubt I could friends present. China offers numerous opportunities, and
shui International Airport, Yunnan University welcomed taste every local delicacy. this is especially true for Yunnan. Yunnan serves as China’s
me with open arms from that very moment—not only as a Now, let me speak about what I am most proud of—the important gateway to South and Southeast Asia. During Sri
lecturer but as family, with warmth, respect, and care. I will Sinhala language program. It is the youngest major in the Lanka’s toughest times—whether battling the pandemic or
always be grateful to the students, colleagues, and every School of Foreign Languages at Yunnan University, offi- facing economic crisis—Yunnan has always stood firmly by
staff member who made me feel truly at home here. cially established only in 2020. In just a few years, we have our side, offering steadfast support.
As a Sri Lankan living in Kunming, honestly, I don’t feel achieved a lot, most notably the establishment of the Sri China is Sri Lanka’s historical friend. The bond between
much difference between our peoples. When I play basket- Lanka–China Friendship Library. It now houses nearly 1,500 our two countries spans centuries, built on trust, respect, and
ball or volleyball with students, the ease and familiarity re- books. Back at the beginning, there wasn’t a single Sinhala walking forward together. Both our nations possess long and
mind me of playing with friends back in Sri Lanka. Dining book in the collection; today, it has become a genuine spe- splendid cultures, and it is our shared duty to explore, share,
out and tasting local flavors often feels like stepping into a cialized library. and pass on these cultural treasures. Events like today’s
restaurant back home. And when I stand in the classroom During my years in Yunnan, I have traveled to many serve as important platforms to empower young people and
teaching, interacting with students gives me the sense that I provinces across China, delivering speeches, giving lec- strengthen the bridge of friendship.
am guiding young Sri Lankan minds. tures, and participating in academic conferences—always China’s development journey has also given me pro-
What’s more, I must say the people of Yunnan are par- representing both Sri Lanka and Yunnan University. Along found inspiration: once, this country endured hardships,
ticularly special—friendly, kind, and always ready to help. the way, I was also fortunate enough to win several inter- plagued by poverty and hunger. But today, it has grown into
Yunnan is home to 26 ethnic groups. Just imagine how national competitions, which further connected me with the a global leader in development, achieving rapid growth and
much potential for tension such diversity could bring. Yet, global academic community and made me deeply aware sustainable progress that benefits not only its own people
have you ever heard of ethnic conflicts here? Never. Differ- that representing my country overseas is both a great honor but also contributes to the world.
ent ethnic groups coexist here in harmony, like one family. and a solemn responsibility. I have also published articles So, let us continue to improve ourselves and grow
This unity is not only a precious asset for Yunnan but also a in China Daily and People’s Daily and been interviewed by stronger. Let us actively share our strengths and achieve
vivid lesson for the whole world. several major Chinese media outlets. mutual success. And let us join hands to carry forward the
Our university is located in Kunming, known as the One of the most cherished honors in my life has been profound friendship between Sri Lanka and China that has
“Spring City”—and for good reason. The climate is pleas- receiving the Yunnan Government Friendship Award—the been passed down through generations, so that this bond
may grow even stronger in the years to come, nurturing the
peoples of both countries for generations to come.