Former President Ranil Wickremesinghe, currently visiting Russia, has called for Sri Lanka to seek membership in the Russia-led BRICS alliance, citing its growing political and economic influence on the global stage.
Speaking at the Valdai Discussion Club Forum in St. Petersburg, Wickremesinghe said, “Russia is not isolated. It continues to strengthen ties across the world, including in our region. BRICS has now evolved into one of the largest and most significant economic groupings, representing countries beyond the traditional Western powers. I had proposed applying for its membership during my tenure.”
He noted that the group now includes newer members such as Iran and Indonesia, with more countries lining up to join. “BRICS is now more relevant than ever — politically and economically. It offers a platform for nations like Sri Lanka that are outside the developed Western bloc.”
Wickremesinghe also pointed out the decline of the Non-Aligned Movement, stating, “BRICS could fill that vacuum and provide an alternative voice for developing nations.”
The BRICS alliance currently comprises 11 countries: Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates, with Argentina and Indonesia among the latest to be invited.
