Russian Ambassador to Sri Lanka, Levan S. Jagaryan, has called on Sri Lanka to demonstrate genuine interest and take tangible steps if it wishes to join the BRICS alliance, noting that mere expressions of intent are not sufficient.
Speaking at an event organised by the Bandaranaike International Centre for International Studies in Colombo, the Ambassador reflected on the ongoing conversations around Sri Lanka’s potential engagement with BRICS—a bloc comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, and other new members. Responding to a journalist’s question on the subject, Jagaryan revealed that this was not the first time he had been asked about Sri Lanka’s possible entry into the group. He noted that Russia and China have consistently shown support for Sri Lanka on the global stage, but from his perspective, there has been limited reciprocal interest or initiative from Colombo regarding BRICS.
Recalling a key moment in diplomatic engagement, the Ambassador said, “On 1 October last year, I met with President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and handed him an official invitation from Russian President Vladimir Putin to attend the BRICS summit. I spoke through an interpreter, and while I’m unsure about the accuracy of the translation, the President explained he would be unable to visit Russia due to the upcoming General Elections.”
He emphasised that BRICS is a multilateral platform and any new membership requires the consensus of all current member states. It is not a process driven by a single country, and Sri Lanka would need to undergo a series of formal steps to be considered.
“I haven’t seen concrete moves from Sri Lanka yet,” Jagaryan added, urging the Government to show clear intent through action if it is serious about pursuing BRICS membership.