In a significant move highlighting the enduring partnership between the United States and Sri Lanka, high-level officials from both nations convened to discuss the strides being made in Sri Lanka’s agricultural sector, particularly in dairy modernization efforts. Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Alexis Taylor, and U.S. Ambassador to Sri Lanka, Julie Chung, engaged in discussions with President Ranil Wickremesinghe and other senior government officials to reaffirm the commitment to bolstering agricultural development in Sri Lanka.
The visit by Under Secretary Taylor underscored the unwavering dedication of the American people towards supporting Sri Lanka’s agricultural growth and economic prosperity. With a focus on enhancing food security and resilience against climate challenges, the discussions emphasized Sri Lanka’s pivotal role as a priority country in the 2024 Food for Progress initiative. This initiative, spearheaded by the USDA, aims to promote sustainable agricultural practices and strengthen market linkages, thereby bolstering food security and climate resilience.
A cornerstone of the collaborative efforts is the ongoing Market-Oriented Dairy Project, backed by a $27.5 million investment. This project has been instrumental in improving milk productivity for over 15,000 dairy farmers across Sri Lanka. Through comprehensive training programs on cattle herding and feed consumption strategies, the project has not only enhanced productivity but also fostered climate adaptability among farmers, mitigating the impact of environmental challenges.
Furthermore, the USDA’s McGovern-Dole project, implemented in partnership with Save the Children and the Ministry of Education since 2018, has been pivotal in providing daily meals to nearly 100,000 primary school children across Sri Lanka. Building on this success, a new five-year, $32.5 million project expansion aims to extend meal provisions to approximately 200,000 students across eight districts, significantly amplifying the impact of Sri Lanka’s national school meal program.
The United States, through its support via USDA initiatives, remains steadfast in its commitment to enhancing food security and stability in Sri Lanka. By fostering agricultural partnerships and investing in sustainable practices, the aim is to empower local farmers, augment food production, and pave the way for a more secure and prosperous future for all Sri Lankans.
This collaborative endeavor between the United States and Sri Lanka exemplifies the power of international cooperation in addressing pressing global challenges. Through shared expertise, resources, and a mutual commitment to sustainable development, significant strides can be made in transforming agricultural landscapes and ensuring food security for generations to come. As both nations continue to work hand in hand, the prospects for Sri Lanka’s dairy industry and broader agricultural sector shine ever brighter.
