Russian Federation extends support with $ 1.5 m sunflower oil donation to Sri Lanka

Demonstrating unwavering solidarity, the Russian Federation has extended a substantial donation of $ 1.5 million worth of sunflower oil to Sri Lanka through the United Nations World Food Program (WFP). 

The official handover ceremony took place at the Partnership Secretariat for World Food Program Co-operation (PSWFPC) premises in Colombo on Tuesday.

Accordingly the Russian federation has granted 130.41 tons of fortified Sunflower oil through the WFP.

The initial batch of 351.9 tons was received on 4 July 2023, followed by a second instalment of 130.41 tons received on 30 December 2023 (117.3MT), and 4 January 2024 (13.11). This benevolent initiative falls under the Emergency Responsive Program (ERP), channelling Russian aid directly to low-income and vulnerable families across the nation. 

The impact of this assistance has reached 8,625 households, particularly in the districts of Batticaloa, Nuwara Eliya and Trincomalee. The total contribution from the Russian Federation now stands at an impressive 482.31 MT, garnering immense appreciation for the humanitarian efforts extended by the people of Russia to the people of 

Sri Lanka.

This collaborative effort highlights the spirit of international solidarity in addressing the pressing needs of communities facing economic challenges, marking a significant milestone in the enduring relationship between the Russian Federation and Sri Lanka. Distinguished participants in this noble endeavour included Ambassador of the Russian Federation Levan S. Dzhagaryan and his team, WFP Country Director Abdur Rahim Siddiqui, Deputy Country Director Gerard Rebello and the team of the WFP, Additional Secretary to the President Vernan Perera, Foreign Affairs Ministry Additional Secretary Ameer Ajwad, PSWFPC Director-General M.H.A.M. Riflan and other officials.