Sri Lanka Steps Up to Honour Russia’s Military Valor

Sri Lanka stepped up in solemn tribute as the Embassy of the Russian Federation in Sri Lanka hosted the Defender of the Fatherland Day ceremony at Cinnamon Life – City of Dreams on 19 February. The occasion honoured the courage, discipline, and enduring service of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation.

Deputy Minister of Defence Major General Aruna Jayasekara (Retd) graced the ceremony as Chief Guest, while the Defence Secretary, Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha (Retd), also turned out in attendance, reflecting Sri Lanka’s deep respect for military service and international partnership.

Addressing the gathering, H.E. Levan S. Dzhagaryan highlighted the spirit of cordial coordination and enduring cooperation between Russia and Sri Lanka. The Deputy Minister reaffirmed that bilateral relations — established in 1957 — have continued to grow across trade, tourism, scientific, and technical collaboration, supported by structured intergovernmental engagement and active business and cultural exchanges.

He also conveyed sincere appreciation for the humanitarian assistance extended by the Russian people to Sri Lanka during the devastation caused by the ‘Ditwah’ cyclone, describing it as a meaningful gesture of solidarity.

Looking ahead, the Deputy Minister noted that Russia’s technological and energy expertise complements Sri Lanka’s maritime and logistical strengths, offering promising avenues to build on shared capabilities and deepen cooperation.

The ceremony, attended by senior diplomats, military officials, and members of the diplomatic corps, stood as both a tribute to valor and a reaffirmation of a partnership that continues to stand firm and move forward with mutual respect and shared purpose.