Colombo, 7 July 2022 (TDI): The President of Sri Lanka, Gotabaya Rajapaksa in his tweet asked Russia’s President for economic aid. The President of Sri Lanka further added that he had conducted a very worthy discussion with Russia’s President.
The President of Sri Lanka also mentioned that the discussion was very productive. The purpose of the discussion was to seek help from Russia.
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Had a very productive telecon with the #Russia President, Vladimir Putin. While thanking him for all the support extended by his gvt to overcome the challenges of the past, I requested an offer of credit support to import fuel to #lka in defeating the current econ challenges.— Gotabaya Rajapaksa (@GotabayaR) July 6, 2022
For Sri Lanka, it is very important to gain support from Russia to purchase fuel since Sri Lanka is running out of fuel too early. This discussion was a result of last week’s warning given by the Energy Minister of Sri Lanka, Kanchana Wijesekera to the government.
Last weekend Kanchana Wijesekera warned that the country was running out of petrol so quickly. So, the Government must arrange alternative sources of fuel.
On Wednesday numerous people blocked the streets of Colombo. The situation got worse when hundreds of people protested against the government.
The President of Sri Lanka in his tweet thanked the Russian Government for supporting Sri Lanka in the past. He requested Russia to support him again. Further Sri Lanka’s President requested Russia for credit support to import fuel.
Strengthening Bilateral Relations
In addition, President Gotabaya Rajapaksa requested for resuming the flights between Colombo and Moscow. The flight operation between both States was suspended last month.
This happened because the Russian flag carrier; Aeroflot suspended the flight operation between both countries. He also added that both States unanimously agreed to strengthen bilateral relations.
He also said that bilateral relations in trade, culture and tourism will be expanded. Sri Lanka has been purchasing oil from Russia for the last few months.
Currently, the Government of Sri Lanka has agreed to purchase further fuel from Russia as the country is looking for financial support from Russia to overcome economic crises.
