Russia pledges to expedite fuel supplies for Sri Lanka, long-term trade deal discussed

A meeting was held between the Deputy Foreign Minister of Russia, Andrey Rudenko, who is currently on an official visit to Sri Lanka, and the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism, Vijitha Herath, at the Foreign Ministry in Colombo.

During the meeting, it was stated that steps would be taken to promptly supply the necessary Russian fuel amid the current challenges faced by Sri Lanka, according to a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism.

The Russian Deputy Foreign Minister also noted that efforts would be made to encourage Russian investors to explore new investment opportunities in Sri Lanka and also to increase tourist arrivals from Russia.

He further expressed willingness to extend all possible support in line with the longstanding friendship between the two countries, including taking necessary steps to provide compensation for Sri Lankan security personnel who have died in Russia, the statement said.

Minister Herath expressed appreciation for the Russian government’s offer of assistance, particularly at a time when Sri Lanka is facing significant energy needs.

He also stated that the time is opportune to further strengthen nearly 70 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries and that steps would be taken to pursue more long-term trade agreements with Russia in the future, it added.