Russia's Lavrov Praises Sri Lanka as Reliable Partner in South Asia

COLOMBO (News 1st); Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has reaffirmed Russia’s commitment to its longstanding partnership with Sri Lanka, describing the island nation as a “reliable partner in South Asia” with a deep and positive history of bilateral relations.

On July 10, on the sidelines of ministerial events under the auspices of ASEAN in Kuala Lumpur, Russia Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov met his Sri Lankan counterpart Vijitha Herath.

During the conversation, the parties discussed pressing issues pertaining to Russian-Lankan relations and collaboration on international platforms.

Lavrov  acknowledged Sri Lanka’s interest in strengthening ties with the BRICS alliance.

“Mr. Minister, it’s nice to make your acquaintance. Sri Lanka is our old, reliable partner in South Asia, and the relations have deep and positive history which we would like to promote as an example for the future,” Lavrov stated. “We welcome your message from last October expressing interest in BRICS, and we are certainly ready to join the consensus on this occasion.”

In response, Minister Herath expressed gratitude for the opportunity to engage in dialogue and highlighted the enduring nature of Sri Lanka-Russia relations. “Sri Lanka and Russia have maintained a strong bilateral relationship for a long time. Many Sri Lankan students are studying in Russia, and many Sri Lankan citizens are working there,” he said.