OREANDA-NEWS. May 26, 2009. In connection with the completion of counter-terrorist operation and the government's regaining control of every area of the country, the President of Sri Lanka expressed his appreciation to Russia for its continued support in the fight against terrorism and separatism.

The President of Russia expressed his hope that actions by the government of Sri Lanka would help maintain its sovereignty, guarantee its territorial integrity, put an end to extremism, and contribute to the sustainable socio-economic development of the nation.

The two leaders noted the close cooperation between Russia and Sri Lanka in international affairs and reiterated their readiness to cooperate more fully.

Mr Medvedev and Mr Rajapaksa emphasised that the key task in bilateral relations remains the expansion of trade and economic cooperation.

During their telephone conversation the two presidents discussed a plan to extend Russian-Sri Lankan contacts at various levels.