In a meeting held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Saturday, February 17th, U.S. Under Secretary for Public Diplomacy and Public Affairs Elizabeth Allen and Sri Lanka’s Foreign Secretary Aruni Wijewardane discussed significant recent developments in the bilateral relationship between the two nations, marking the 75th anniversary of their diplomatic ties.
Under Secretary Allen assured continuous U.S. assistance to the Government of Sri Lanka in achieving economic stability. The discussions also focused on enhancing people-to-people ties and Diaspora outreach to strengthen the bond between the two countries.
Foreign Secretary Wijewardane expressed gratitude for the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation’s development assistance to Colombo West International Terminal Private Limited in November 2023. She further appreciated the U.S. humanitarian and emergency aid, which has played a vital role in addressing Sri Lanka’s economic challenges.
Wijewardane welcomed U.S. support in securing the Extended Fund Facility Programme (EFF) under the International Monetary Fund (IMF). During the meeting, she provided updates on economic and reconciliation developments, highlighting Sri Lanka’s priorities as Chair of the Indian Ocean Rim Association.
Accompanying Under Secretary Allen were U.S. Ambassador to Sri Lanka Julie Chung, officials from the Department of State, and representatives from the U.S. Embassy in Colombo. The Foreign Secretary was joined by senior officials from the Foreign Ministry.
Under Secretary Allen, who arrived in Sri Lanka earlier in the day, received a warm welcome from U.S. Ambassador Chung. Throughout her visit, Allen is scheduled to engage with government officials, media representatives, digital content creators, and youth leaders to discuss the partnership between the two nations. The discussions will also focus on safeguarding Sri Lanka’s information and media space, with a shared goal of promoting prosperity on the island nation.
Following her visit to Sri Lanka, Under Secretary Allen is set to embark on a visit to India, further strengthening diplomatic ties and collaboration in the region.
