Sri Lanka has expressed its desire to join BRICS+, an expanding partnership between Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa.
This follows Sri Lanka’s participation in the XII International Meeting of High Representatives in Charge of Security Issues currently under way in St. Petersburg, Russia.
Sri Lanka’s Ambassador to Russia, Janitha Abeywickrema Liyanage said that the country’s intention was to join BRICS+ “in the near future,” and cited the potential benefits for transport and food security, TV BRICS reported.
This is in keeping with Sri Lanka’s ongoing efforts to strengthen ties with Russia, particularly as the two nations celebrate the 68th anniversary of establishing diplomatic relations this year. The XII International Meeting, held from April 23 to 25, brought together high-level security officials from participating countries. The representatives included Secretaries of Security Councils, Advisors, Deputy Prime Ministers, Heads of security agencies and special services, along with delegates from international organisations. Russia was represented by the Secretary of the Security Council Nikolai Patrushev.
Sri Lanka’s interest in BRICS+ reflects a growing trend of countries seeking closer cooperation with the influential emerging economies bloc. – Egypt News
