By Sulochana Ramiah Mohan
Russian Ambassador to Sri Lanka and the Maldives, Levan Dzhagaryan, expressed frustration over the lack of progress on several initiatives proposed by Russia during the talks with the previous government.
In a candid interview with Ceylon Today last week, Ambassador Dzhagaryan urged the new Sri Lankan leadership to adopt a more pragmatic approach, calling for balance rather than relying on slogans and diplomatic rhetoric.
One of the prominent proposals discussed by the Russian side was the construction of two mini nuclear power plants in Sri Lanka, as well as a joint venture between Russia and India to take-over the management of Mattala International Airport. However, these projects have made little headway. The Ambassador stated that there had been no updates on the progress of these initiatives, despite meetings with senior Sri Lankan officials, including the former Minister of Aviation.
On bilateral ties, Ambassador Dzhagaryan said Ceylon Tea exports to Russia last year were 22,600 tons valued at USD 800,000. “From January to October this year, we have already purchased 20,600 tons. We hope Sri Lankan tea, which is represented by tea brands like Basilur, for instance, will continue to be a significant export to Russia. That said, there are other popular tea brands in the Russian market as well.”
The Ambassador acknowledged the significant challenges faced by Sri Lanka and other countries due to US sanctions, but emphasised the importance of a measured foreign policy. He noted that Sri Lanka, aspiring to be a member of the BRICS grouping, must navigate international relations carefully. “A balanced approach is crucial for Sri Lanka’s future,” he said, adding that the country should avoid overly simplistic solutions and instead pursue a pragmatic, balanced path.
Ambassador Dzhagaryan also discussed specific initiatives that had not progressed, including Russia’s proposal to introduce a MIR payment system in Sri Lanka. While Russia had introduced this system to enable smoother financial transactions, countries adopting it have faced secondary sanctions from the United States. “We understand that Sri Lanka is in a very difficult economic situation and is seeking assistance from the IMF and other international partners. However, we also know that there is external pressure on Sri Lanka to block cooperation with Russia,” he said. “Despite this, we appreciate that Sri Lanka has maintained a balanced and neutral position, consistent with its legacy as a founding member of the Non-Aligned Movement.”
He also highlighted another unaddressed proposal from earlier this year involving Goznak, a Russian company that offered to print driver’s licences and Sri Lankan currency notes. “I met with high-ranking officials and presented all our proposals, but there has been no response,” Dzhagaryan remarked. “This lack of response is discouraging and suggests a lack of interest.”
Despite the setbacks, the Ambassador expressed hope that the new Government would revive these discussions. “We are ready to assist if the Government is willing to engage. We will continue to wait for the new administration to take up these proposals and move them forward,” he concluded.
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