Foreign Minister Ali Sabry has called on the Global South to collectively address global challenges of climate change, debt burden and food security.
The Foreign Minister made these remarks addressing the BRICS Foreign Ministers’ meeting with developing countries held in Nizhny Novgorod, Russia.
Minister Sabry undertook an official visit to Russia at the invitation of his counterpart, Sergey Lavrov, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation from 10-11 June 2024 to attend the BRICS Foreign Ministers’ meeting.
The meeting was attended by high level representatives of 22 countries including 17 Foreign Ministers.
Delivering his statement, the Sri Lankan Foreign Minister stated that Global South should collectively address global challenges, stressing that the architecture of global governance, established in the aftermath of World War II has achieved significant milestones.
“However, that it was increasingly evident that this structure must evolve to reflect the contemporary realities of our world”, he said.
The Foreign Minister highlighted that voices and interests of emerging economies and developing nations must be integrated more fully into the decision-making processes of international institutions.
He also emphasized the need for a rules-based global order that ensures fairness, justice, and respect for sovereignty for all nations.
Foreign Minister Sabry stressed the role of regional organizations, such as the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA), in promoting cooperation, sustainable development, and security.
He made special note of the humanitarian situation in Gaza, calling for global justice for its citizens.
During his visit, Minister Sabry met with foreign ministers from Russia, Belarus, Iran, and Kazakhstan to discuss enhancing bilateral relations.
Discussions included Russia’s support for Sri Lanka’s IORA chairmanship, implementing agreements with Iran, establishing a Sri Lankan mission in Kazakhstan, and advancing trade and economic cooperation with Belarus.
Diplomatic staff from the Sri Lankan Embassy in Moscow attended these meetings.
Chargé d’Affaires of the Embassy of Sri Lanka in Moscow Ambassador P M Amza, Director General Economic Affairs (Multilateral) of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs K K Yoganaadan and, Counsellor of the Embassy of Sri Lanka in Moscow Ruvini Munidasa associated with the Minister during these meetings. (Newswire)