Sri Lanka's Ambassador to Russia says Sri Lanka aspires to join BRICS+

Sri Lanka intends to join BRICS+ in the near future, which will enable the country to ensure transport and food security, the country's Ambassador to Russia Janitha Abeywickrema Liyanage said.

"Now Sri Lankan delegation is attending the Security Council forum. Indeed, there is a desire to join BRICS+ in the near future, this will provide an opportunity to ensure security, both transport and food security," the diplomat said.

Earlier, the island nation has repeatedly expressed hope to strengthen ties with Russia. This year marks the 68th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two states.

The XII International Meeting of High Representatives in charge of security issues is taking place in St Petersburg from 23 to 25 April. It is attended by secretaries of security councils, advisers, deputy prime ministers, heads of security agencies and special services, as well as representatives of international organisations.

Russia is represented by Secretary of the Security Council Nikolai Patrushev.