The students said although they have never been to China, they would like to visit the country and meet their Chinese friends one day.

"It is an honor not only for the school, but also for the country. I express my heartful gratitude to Peng for her response," said W. Samarasinghe Samarasinghe, the school principal.

The students said they will continue to create art and write cards to express their support for China in fighting the virus.

"I am sure China will defeat the virus soon," said Subomi Rajapaksha, a 10-year-old girl whose painting depicts children from China and Sri Lanka playing happily in the near future when the epidemic is over.

"As you have always been there for us in difficulties, we are going to stand by your side in every step towards a better future," 17-year-old student T.H Saubhagya Jayawardena wrote on her card.