Sri Lanka’s BRICS membership under consideration confirms Russia, denying local reports

by admin
Nov 12, 2024

The Russian Embassy in Colombo has addressed recent media reports suggesting that Sri Lanka’s application for BRICS membership had been rejected, clarifying that no final decision has been made.

According to an official statement from the embassy, Sri Lanka’s application to join the BRICS coalition—which comprises Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa—is still under consideration. The embassy emphasized that Sri Lanka’s interest was welcomed by the BRICS leadership and that its application will be evaluated “in full consultation and consensus,” alongside applications from other nations.

This clarification counters earlier remarks from Sri Lanka’s Cabinet Spokesperson Bandula Herath, who indicated at a post-Cabinet media briefing that Sri Lanka’s late bid for BRICS membership had been declined by the group. “The nine member countries have decided not to entertain any new membership this time,” Herath told reporters, explaining that the timing of Sri Lanka’s application—submitted just before the recent BRICS summit—had likely impacted its chances. He added that while Sri Lanka’s membership in the BRICS coalition was not currently an option, the government was exploring entry into the New Development Bank (NDB), an institution founded by BRICS to finance infrastructure and development projects.

Shortly after Herath’s remarks however, Sri Lanka’s Foreign Ministry also issued a statement saying that it’s application would be considered later.

“Local media reports that Sri Lanka’s application has been rejected are wrong,” read the Russian embassy’s statement. It emphasized that Sri Lanka’s bid remains on the table, with discussions still underway among BRICS members about the criteria and process for expanding membership.

Last month BRICS formally welcomed four new members - Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates – at a summit that saw leaders from 36 countries, as well as the UN Secretary General, in attendance.

Earlier this year, Herath said Sri Lanka was looking to join BRICS for "peace & development, and reducing reliance on western financial institutions".

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Tamil asylum seekers in Australia mark 100 days of continuous protests for permanent visas

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This demonstration, which culminated in a rally and speeches in Punchbowl, highlighted the plight of refugees denied permanent visas for over 12 years. Speakers at the event shed light on the profound impact of the current system, including barriers to higher education, employment, and access to essential services.

The protest has now entered its 100th day, with Tamil asylum seekers and their supporters continuing their relentless demand for permanent protection. For 38 days, they camped outside Australia’s Minister for Home Affairs, Tony Burke’s office in Sydney, calling on the government to end the visa limbo that has left many without basic rights and stability. Tamil asylum seekers have been in Australia for over a decade, living on short-term visas that must be renewed regularly. Without permanent residency, they are excluded from Medicare—Australia’s universal health insurance scheme—and are denied the right to work, study, travel, or access essential services. Many are also required to report to visa offices weekly.

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Amaran - Problematic propaganda

amaran

The genre of war epic makes its grand re-entry to Tamil cinema with director Rajkumar Periasamy’s sophomore feature film, ‘Amaran.’ As is often the case with this genre, one cannot help but feel the events of the ‘true story’ onscreen have been heavily modified for easy consumption.

 

 

 

The patriotic military films of Tamil cinema had taken a back seat for a while. The subject matter is now seldom a prominent theme of a film, instead lurking in the shadows peeking through such as via the heroes in the works of Nelson Dilipkumar. The genre of war epic makes its grand re-entry to Tamil cinema with director Rajkumar Periasamy’s sophomore feature film, ‘Amaran.’ As is often the case with this genre, one cannot help but feel the events of the ‘true story’ onscreen have been heavily modified for easy consumption.

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Krishna's rating: 2.5 stars

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Official trailer for film below.

UN Special Committee finds Israel warfare methods in Gaza consistent with Genocide

un_spcial

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“It is the collective responsibility of every State to stop supporting the assault on Gaza and the apartheid system in the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem,” the Committee said.

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(j) Fully cooperate with the International Criminal Court. 

Read more here

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