ON the occasion of Diplomat’s Day, the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Russian Federation said that due to the importance of protecting national interests and because Russia is bordering with 18 countries, realisation of foreign policy is of priority for the Government of the Russian Federation.The event was attended by other members of the diplomatic corps. There was sampling of some Russian delicacies as the Ambassador explained that the foods or snacks are in accordance with the season the country is experiencing.

Ambassador Nikolay Smirnov was at the time speaking at a cocktail held to honour the event. He explained the reason for the occasion, noting that the first Russian Foreign Service was mentioned in February 10, 1549.
The holiday was officially instituted in 2002 by the then President Vladimir Putin. “It has symbolised a combination of our efforts to address current tasks with continuity, respect for the memory of our predecessors, the preservation of traditions of Russian diplomacy known for its high professionalism and creative approach,” Smirnov related.
According to Smirnov, the civil war in Ukraine can be resolved only through diplomatic methods and direct political dialogue between Kiev authorities and the representatives of the people of Donetsk and Lugansk republics. Like in many conflicts Russia supports non-military and political means to solve differences. “Supply of lethal weapons will only destabilise the situation,” he said.
Russia is not set on confrontation, but is willing to make reasonable compromises based on a balance of interests while promoting peaceful agenda. Only collective efforts and reliance on international law and the central role of the United Nations will produce answers to the threats and challenges facing all of mankind.
The Ambassador concluded by thanking everyone for their presence to celebrate this event, stressing that in Russia “there is a strong belief that the policy of honesty and openness are the driving power in our profession that provides for achieving of the set goals.”

(By Rebecca Ganesh-Ally)