President Gotabaya Rajapaksa says he wishes to further consolidate and expand the existing solid partnership between Russia and Sri Lanka into new and more extensive areas of cooperation.

He made this remark in a felicitation message for his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin, to mark the 65th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

President Rajapaksa stated that the abiding friendship and vibrant relations between the two nations are time-tested, and mutually rewarding.

“On behalf of the Government and the people of Sri Lanka, and on my own behalf, I take great pleasure in conveying to Your Excellency, the Government and people for the Russian Federation, our warm greetings and sincere felicitations as Sri Lanka and Russia mark the momentous occasion of the 65th anniversary of establishing diplomatic relations between our two countries,” 

Underpinned by shared values and mutual respect, relations between the two countries have continued to flourish over the years, promising further expansion into multiple spheres of shared interest, the felicitation message read further.

“As we commemorate this historical milestone in our bilateral ties, I wish to express my fervent desire to continue to work closely with you to further consolidate and expand the existing solid partnership between our countries into new and more extensive areas of cooperation in the years ahead for the betterment of our people.”

The President extended his best wishes for his Russian counterpart’s good health, happiness, and personal well-being and for the continued progress of the bilateral relations between the two countries.