China responds to concerns on Sri Lankan flag doormats ; Amazon withdraws adverts

The Chinese Embassy in Colombo  emphasized in a statement published on March 12 that it is China’s consistent stand that the national flag is a country’s symbol that must be fully respected.

 

Footwear and carpets displaying the Sri Lankan national flag had been made available for sale on the Amazon website.

 

Foreign Secretary Admiral (Retired) Prof. Jayanath Colombage had later informed the Embassy of Sri Lanka in Beijing to contact the manufacturer concerned in China.

 

In response, the Embassy stated that  it is  "aware of some concerns about inappropriate advertising of Sri Lanka national flag on Amazon, which has been conveyed to the related Chinese authorities for investigation and necessary measures accordingly.”

 

 

The Foreign Affairs Ministry also  stated that the Embassy of Sri Lanka in Beijing, had immediately requested the Foreign Affairs Ministry of China to take necessary action to stop the production of doormats and any such products that misuse the Sri Lanka flag, upon being notified of the incident.

 

The Embassy had then requested the company that marketed the product on Amazon to immediately stop selling the doormats and any such products, misusing the  national flag of Sri Lanka.

 

The advertisement has  been removed from Amazon as per the the Foreign Affairs Ministry.

 

The statement  further said that the Embassy is closely monitoring this matter and will take appropriate action through the relevant authorities in China to stop the production and selling of any product with the image of the Sri Lankan National flag.

 

Source : 2021 Ada Derana