The newly appointed Ambassador-designate of Sri Lanka to Russia, Prof. Janitha Abeywickrema Liyanage assumed duties as the Ambassador of Sri Lanka to Russia at a simple ceremony held at the Embassy on 04th October 2021.

After having been warmly welcomed by the staff of the Embassy, Ambassador-designate offered prayers to Lord Gaithama Buddha and lit the traditional oil lamp. Ven. Sooriyawewa Gnadassi Thero, who is undergoing postgraduate studies at the Rudn University in Russia, chanted pirith and invoked blessings on the new Ambassador while assuming duties.
Addressing the staff of the Embassy, Prof. Liyanage highlighted the importance of working as one team with commitment and dedication to realize the vision set out by President Gotabaya Rajapaksa in the policy framework 'Vistas of Prosperity and Splendour' to achieve economic prosperity and to further elevate the friendly relations between Sri Lanka and Russia to greater heights.
On 05th October 2021, Ambassador-designate met the Director of the State Protocol Department of the Russian Federation Igor Bogdashev and presented open copies of the letters of credence formalizing her appointment as the Ambassador of Sri Lanka to Russia.
During the ensuing conversation, Ambassador Liyanage referred to the longstanding friendly relations between Sri Lanka and Russia and conveyed plans to further advance the multifaceted cooperation between the two countries in all areas of mutual interest. Director Bogdashev in response wished Ambassador Liyanage a successful tenure in Russia and assured his fullest support in discharging her duties.
Ambassador Prof. Janitha Abeywickrema Liyanage is a seasoned academic and served as the Vice Chancellor of the Gampaha Wickramarachchi University of Indigenous Medicine prior to her departure to Russia.