On December 14, 2023 H.E. the Ambassador of Sri Lanka to Russia Prof. Janitha A. Liyanage received Mr. Batu Khasikov, the Head of the Republic of Kalmykia with the delegation.

The two sides discussed the potential area for cooperation between Sri Lanka and Republic of Kalmykia including joint Buddhist studies, tourism, education, culture, trade and economic sectors. Ambassador Prof. Janitha A. Liyanage and Head of the Republic Mr. Batu Khasikov expressed readiness to strengthen ties in religious sphere and in the field of higher education with two universities of Sri Lanka. In addition, the matter of establishing twinning ties between Elista and one of the cities of Sri Lanka was considered.
Mr. Batu Khasikov informed that Kalmykia would host International Buddhist Summit in 2025 and extended an invitation to H.E. Prof. Janitha A. Liyanage to attend the event.
Mr. Batu Khasikov informed about the initiative of Russian President Vladimir Putin to declare 2024 the Year of the Family. Ambassador Prof. Janitha A. Liyanage noted that family values in Buddhism are also fundamental and expressed her willingness to take part in events aimed at strengthening the institution of the family.
H.E. Prof Liyanage extended an invitation to Mr. Batu Khasikov to visit Sri Lanka in 2024.
Two days earlier H.E. the Ambassador Prof. Janitha A. Liyanage visited a Day of Kalmykia celebrated in the framework of the International Exhibition and Forum "Russia" at VDNKH.
In September, the Ambassador took part in the 4th Elista Economic Forum as a guest of honor.