Russian envoy calls for stronger SL-Russia ties

Suraj A Bandara

“The friendship between Russia and Sri Lanka is not confined only to diplomatic relations but has expanded its horizons with people to people contacts in the spheres of culture, politics and sports, Ambassador of the Russian Federation in Sri Lanka Vladimir P. Mikhaylov said.

He was addressing a function held to coincide the National Day of Russia at the Russian Cultural Centre recently. Members of the Sri Lanka-Russia Parliamentary Association and Sri Lanka-Russia Friendship Association graced the occasion and promised to work jointly in enhancing bilateral relationships. He added that relations between Sri Lanka and Russia continued unaffected under different governments in Sri Lanka. He was of the view the relations between the two countries should be further strengthened.

Russian businessmen are keen on embarking on investment opportunities in Sri Lanka and have signed agreements to be partners of Sri Lanka’s economic growth.

“Both countries marked a significant achievement in bilateral cooperation. The visit of the Russian Foreign Minister to Sri Lanka in 2009 and President Mahinda Rajapaksa’s first visit to Russia in 2010 were significant moments in both countries, he recalled.

“There is no doubt that friendly relations between Russia and Sri Lanka will further develop for the benefit of the peoples of both countries, he noted.

Petroleum Resources and Industries Minister and President of Sri Lanka Russia Parliamentary Association Susil Premajayantha thanked the Russian government for the continuous support extended to Sri Lanka.

The minister added that Russia was a true friend who always stands by Sri Lanka at difficult times.