• The Russian-Sri Lankan political dialogue invariably rests on equality, goodwill and respect for each other’s interests

On the eve of the 65th anniversary of Russia-Sri Lanka ties, Russian Foreign Ministry spokesman Maria Zakharova said February 19 will mark the 65th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Russia and Sri Lanka-the two nations are bound by a long-standing friendship.  

She said, “The Russian-Sri Lankan political dialogue invariably rests on equality, goodwill and respect for each other’s interests. We cooperate productively in the international arena, in the UN and other multilateral agencies and forums. Russia has always been an important trading partner of Sri Lanka and is one of the main importers of its main export product, Ceylon tea. The Russian-Sri Lankan inter-governmental Commission for Trade, Economic, Scientific and Technical Cooperation effectively contributes to the strengthening of bilateral business ties. The number of Russian tourists visiting the island nation rose after direct flights between Moscow and Colombo were resumed in July last year.  

As this important date approaches, we would like to wish all the best to our Sri Lankan friends and express confidence in the continued progressive development of the entire scope of bilateral ties,” she said.