On the Occasion of the 67th Independence Day, a reception was organized at the Residence of the Ambassador, His Excellency Udayanga Weeratunga on 5 February 2015. Deputy Director, 2nd Asia Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation Mr. Andrey Budnik graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. In addition to the Sri Lankan community living in the Russian Federation, Ambassadors, Members of the diplomatic corps, officials, Sri Lankan and Russian business community, representatives of Chambers and Sri Lankan students studying in Moscow, Tver and Kursk were also present at the occasion.
His Excellency the Ambassador, whilst delivering the welcome speech. Further the gathering was enlightened on the progress made so far in different spheres, especially in tourism and trade, and room for further expansion was statistically explicated. The Chief Guest, Mr. Andrey Budnik congratulated His Excellency the President and the people of Sri Lanka on the occasion of the commemoration of the 67th Independence Day. Further he appreciated the government initiatives taken to uplift the social and economic development in the country.
Relations between the Russian Federation and Sri Lanka, which commenced in 1957, have always been cordial and friendly. Over the years, ties relating to trade, air transport, defense and cultural cooperation have been strengthened through bilateral agreements. The two countries have also actively moved forward promoting joint interaction in the fields of defense cooperation, bilateral trade, and tourism.
All guests were served with traditional Sri Lankan cuisine and were served with Randy Tea.
