Chandana Srimal Dangallalage: We Should Promote Cultural and Youth Exchanges Between Our Countries
The 2nd Global Digital Forum in Moscow is attracting growing attention. At the Mechta venue, participants from different countries are discussing technology, infrastructure and partnerships, with conversations increasingly focused on developing practical solutions.
Reflecting on the first days of the forum, Chandana Srimal Dangallalage, an independent journalist and content creator from Sri Lanka, spoke to IT Russia about Russian social media platforms, cultural promotion and opportunities for cooperation between countries.
– I’m an independent journalist and content creator. In my free time, I also advocate for human rights in Sri Lanka. I write articles and children’s stories as well.
This is my fourth visit to Russia. I first came in 2024 to attend a festival in Sochi. On my second visit, I took part in a festival in Nizhny Novgorod, and in September 2026, I attended a festival in Yekaterinburg. But this is my first time at the Global Digital Forum.
I’d like to thank the Russian House in Sri Lanka for giving me the opportunity to come here, take part in the forum and gain new knowledge and skills.
I have an account on VKontakte. After my first trip to Russia in 2024, I learned a great deal about Russian culture. When I returned to Sri Lanka, I started sharing what I’d learned with people back home and building my personal brand on social media. I share my impressions of Russia, its beauty and its hospitality.
I already have considerable experience using Russian social networks and platforms. Interestingly, I haven’t come across the negative reactions on VKontakte that I see on other social media platforms. Those platforms let users leave a thumbs-down, laugh or angry reaction, but I haven’t found those options on VKontakte.
I think that’s a good thing. It’s important to share positive experiences and foster a friendly atmosphere. Perhaps the absence of those negative reactions helps. Russia also places a strong emphasis on promoting the Russian language. It has an important place on social media, and I think it’s right for every country to support and develop its own native language.
We can strengthen ties between our countries through cultural exchange. It’s also important to expand contacts between young people. Sri Lanka has many talented and capable young people, including students at one of the country’s leading universities. We have a lot to share with each other, so I believe young people in our countries should exchange ideas. Literary exchange is equally important, allowing people to discover each other’s literature. Cultural cooperation can also help bring our peoples closer together.
