What stories do these walls hold? They represent more than just a building. They embody a bond between Sri Lanka and Russia. This is the Embassy of Sri Lanka in Moscow. It stands as a symbol of a relationship that began officially in 1957.
The Embassy is located on Ulitsa Shchepkina. Its doors are open Monday to Friday. You can visit between 9:00 a.m. and 4:45 p.m. here at the Embassy of Sri Lanka. The phone number is +7 495 6881620. Feel free to contact them.
Think back to 1956. The Soviet Union and Sri Lanka established diplomatic ties. Just two years later, they signed an agreement. It was for economic and technical cooperation. The Soviets helped build a steel mill. They also assisted with a tire plant and a construction materials plant near Colombo. This early collaboration laid a strong foundation.
Even now, Russia supports Sri Lanka at the UN. In 2009 Russia vetoed a resolution calling for a ceasefire during Sri Lanka’s civil war. This act showed Russia’s commitment to Sri Lanka during a difficult time. After the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Sri Lanka acknowledged Russia’s concerns.
Military cooperation has also been vital. Russia has helped Sri Lanka obtain weaponry. This includes Mil Mi-17 helicopters and T-54/55 battle tanks. In 2017 Sri Lanka ordered a Gepard-class frigate from Russia.
Economic ties are strong between the two countries. Russia is a leading importer of Sri Lankan tea. Approximately 17 percent of Sri Lanka’s tea exports go to Russia. Sri Lankan teas make up 30% of Russia’s tea market. In 2016 nearly 60.000 Russian tourists visited Sri Lanka.
In 2017 there was a temporary restriction on tea imports. An insect was found in a consignment of tea. It turned out that the insect was not native to Sri Lanka. After discussions, Russia lifted the restrictions.
Since 1957, thousands of Sri Lankans have studied in Russia. Russia offers about 40 state scholarships annually. These graduates contribute to Sri Lanka’s development.
High-level visits have strengthened cooperation. Prime Minister Sirimavo Bandaranaike visited Moscow in 1963 and 1974. President Mahinda Rajapaksa visited Russia twice in 2010 and 2011.
The Embassy of Sri Lanka in Moscow is more than a building. It’s a place where partnerships thrive. It is where history continues to unfold. It represents a lasting friendship between two nations.