Sri Lanka's aspiration to join BRICS marks a significant turning point in its foreign policy evolution—a journey shaped by colonial legacies, non-alignment principles, and the ongoing quest for debt sustainability. During a recent meeting with this writer, Ali Sabry PC, former Foreign Minister of Sri Lanka, articulated the strategic importance of BRICS membership for the nation, saying, "We have established a committee comprising experts from various ministries to evaluate our potential as a BRICS member, and the conclusion was unanimous."

With a new president, Anura Kumara Dissanayake, and the country set to hold parliamentary elections—in which many believe the president's party, Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna, may secure a simple majority in parliament—it is time to examine the historical perspective of Sri Lanka's foreign policy as a multipolar world increasingly becomes a reality, alongside the country's bid for BRICS membership.

Historical context of foreign policy

For over 450 years, Sri Lanka endured the dominance of the Portuguese, Dutch and British empires, which left a lasting legacy that continues to shape its diplomatic identity. Following independence in 1948, Sri Lanka initially aligned itself with Western powers, particularly Britain and the United States, embracing their economic and political ideologies. However, this alignment proved fraught with complications, as Western powers often viewed Sri Lanka through the lens of Cold War geopolitics, leading to periods of tension and uncertainty in its foreign relations.

During the mid-20th century, the political spectrum of Ceylon (now Sri Lanka) was heavily influenced by a Westernized elite that identified closely with British values and perspectives. Its reliance on British expertise in the years after independence illustrated the profound influence of colonial ties in shaping Sri Lanka's governance and foreign policy.

Until the defeat of the United National Party government in 1956, Sri Lanka maintained a pro-British stance, even inviting the Duke of Gloucester to inaugurate independence ceremonies in 1948. The country's prime ministers viewed participation in Commonwealth conferences as a significant honor and fostered diplomatic relations with powerful Dominions like Canada and Australia.

However, Sirimavo Bandaranaike, the world's first female prime minister, built upon the foundational work of her husband, S.W.R.D. Bandaranaike, who significantly reengineered Sri Lanka's foreign policy in the 1950s. Following his assassination in 1959, she sought to shift the nation's trajectory further by championing a non-aligned foreign policy. She poignantly stated, "We must strive to live in peace with our neighbors and to uphold our dignity as a nation." Sirimavo Bandaranaike's vision aimed to carve out a distinct identity for Sri Lanka, allowing it to navigate the intricate geopolitical landscape without becoming subservient to the interests of major powers.

This non-aligned stance gained further momentum through Sri Lanka's participation in the Non-Aligned Movement, which championed respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity. Under Sirimavo Bandaranaike's leadership, Sri Lanka became a founding member of the Non-Aligned Movement in 1961, joining a coalition of nations asserting their independence from Western and Soviet influences. This movement played a pivotal role in shaping Sri Lanka's foreign policy, allowing it to engage with diverse global powers while safeguarding its sovereignty and autonomy.

Sirimavo Bandaranaike's ethos became a guiding principle for successive administrations, fostering a diplomatic culture that prioritized self-determination over external pressures.

Nevertheless, the complexities of Sri Lanka's relationship with India introduced significant challenges to this non-aligned approach. Historically, India has exerted considerable influence over Sri Lankan politics, initially supporting its independence but later straining relations due to ethnic and geopolitical issues. The ethnic tensions that emerged during the late 20th century necessitated a reassessment of Sri Lanka's foreign policy direction, as the nation grappled with internal discord while attempting to maintain its sovereign identity.

The rise of emerging powers

The evolution of Sri Lanka's relations with major powers has become increasingly intricate. The post-Cold War era heralded a shift in global dynamics, with emerging economies like China asserting their clout. During this time, Sri Lanka endeavored to strengthen ties with other nations, including China and India, all the while striving to maintain its non-aligned stance. This balancing act proved precarious, as Sri Lankan leaders sought to juggle the competing interests of larger powers without compromising their national integrity.

China's emergence as a global economic power has profoundly influenced Sri Lanka's foreign policy landscape. The relationship between Sri Lanka and China began to flourish in the early 2000s, resulting in significant investments in Sri Lanka's infrastructure development. Key projects, such as the Hambantota Port and the Colombo International Financial City, are often mischaracterized as potential sources of debt dependency or threats to sovereignty. However, extensive research, including studies from reputable Western institutions, has debunked the notion of a "debt trap." Rather than entrapping nations, China's investments are vital for enhancing economic growth and regional connectivity.

Critics of these investments often perceive China's engagement as a threat, framing it within a narrative of geopolitical rivalry and unfounded propaganda. This view overlooks the tangible benefits that these projects bring to underdeveloped nations like Sri Lanka, which are crucial for their development and modernization. The focus should instead be on the opportunities these partnerships create for economic revitalization and infrastructure advancement, which can help elevate living standards and foster sustainable growth.

Sri Lanka is undergoing a paradigm shift in its political structure, which may inevitably redefine its foreign policy strategies. With non-alignment as a fundamental principle, the country is pursuing opportunities to join robust initiatives in the Global South, as part of its drive to overcome its short-term, mid-term and long-term challenges.

BRICS: a strategic opportunity

For Sri Lanka, pursuing BRICS membership transcends mere economic strategy. It embodies a broader geopolitical statement reflecting a desire for agency in international relations. Aligning with BRICS resonates with Sri Lanka's commitment to fostering sustainable development through equitable partnerships with emerging economies. The bloc's emphasis on collaboration and mutual respect aligns with Sri Lanka's aspirations for a more inclusive global economic framework.

The potential benefits of BRICS membership are manifold. By engaging with member countries, Sri Lanka will be able to tap into diverse markets, garner access to vital investment resources, and attract tourism opportunities. Moreover, participating in BRICS initiatives can facilitate technology transfer and capacity building, which are essential for Sri Lanka's economic development. This engagement can bolster the island nation's efforts to transition from a predominantly agricultural economy to a more diversified and resilient one, fostering innovation and entrepreneurship.

However, the path to BRICS membership is not without its challenges. As Sri Lanka grapples with its economic recovery amid a backdrop of financial instability, maintaining diplomatic equilibrium between competing powers is crucial. The lessons learned from historical experiences underscore the importance of forging partnerships based on mutual respect and shared interests. Engaging in constructive dialogue with existing BRICS members is imperative to articulate Sri Lanka's vision and contributions to the group while ensuring that national interests remain at the forefront of its diplomatic agenda.

Sri Lanka's quest for BRICS membership is a strategic move to redefine its narrative in the international arena and embrace a proactive stance in engaging with emerging economies. This evolution in foreign policy aims to cultivate partnerships that prioritize equitable growth and sustainable development, reflecting a broader commitment to fostering an inclusive global order that transcends historical grievances. Sri Lanka's journey toward BRICS membership also provides a compelling opportunity to enhance its global standing and promote collaborative development. 

The author is a Sri Lanka-born journalist and founding editor of the Sri Lanka Guardian website

Copyedited by G.P. Wilson

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