SL-Russia Biz Council bids farewell to Ambassador

A farewell dinner was organised by the Sri Lanka-Russia Business Council of the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce for Vladimir Mikhaylov and Madam Mikhaylov in recognition of the yeomen services rendered by Mikhaylov during his tenure as the Patron of the Council.

The event was held on 6 July 2012 at the Dukes Court, Cinnamon Lakeside Hotel, Colombo. Mikhaylov completed his tenure of service end July 2012.

Mohamed Shabir, President of the Sri Lanka-Russia Business Council, addressing the gathering stated that Mikhaylov, Ambassador extraordinaire and plenipotentiary, was a highly skilled and experienced envoy who strengthened Sri-Lanka Russia relations and unreservedly defended the policies of Sri Lanka and its people in excruciating circumstances at the highest echelons.

“He has been the vibrant driving force and visionary for the SLRBC. He leaves us at a vantage point where political, social, cultural, academic and commercial and friendship levels between Sri Lanka and Russian Federation are at an all-time peak,” he added.

Mikhaylov addressing the gathering stated that unlike the time he assumed duties, great potential lay ahead of now that the war was no more. He requested the Business Council to continue to  be more strategically and proactively involved in promoting bilateral trade between the two countries.

During the vote of thanks Hiran Karunaratne, Vice President of SLRBC, said: “Russia supported Sri Lanka politically at a time of need, when international pressure was high on Sri Lanka in regards to the final stages of her war against terrorism and in the following stages of political development. Though Russia may have done so for reasons of international justice, this support was received with warm gratitude by the Government and people of Sri Lanka, in our opinion, to a great degree because of the personal charisma of Ambassador Mikhaylov. He is a true friend of Sri Lanka. He has endeavoured to enhance political, economic and cultural ties with a personal touch.

“As the Patron of the Sri Lanka Russia Business Council he guided and supported us staunchly, constantly encouraging us while pointing out areas for improvement. He has travelled widely in Sri Lanka and being a talented photographer has captured many facets of Sri Lanka on camera. These photographs have been exhibited on many occasions strengthening our cultural ties.”

The Sri-Lanka Russia Business Council presented a memento to Mikhaylov in appreciation and recognition of his unstinted support to the council.  

The event was well attended with the elite of Sri Lankan business community who hold Mikhaylov in high esteem and attended the function to bid bon voyage and good luck to Mikhaylov and Madam Mikhaylov.