Deputy Secretary of State for Management and Resources Richard Verma pledges continued support for Sri Lanka’s economic growth and security, emphasizing cooperation on defense, maritime initiatives, and infrastructure development.
During his visit to Sri Lanka, Deputy Secretary of State for Management and Resources Richard Verma reiterated the United States’ unwavering dedication to fostering Sri Lanka’s economic progress and security. Engaging with government officials, civil society representatives, and economic leaders, Verma underscored the importance of inclusive economic reforms and governance initiatives supported by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to sustain Sri Lanka’s path towards long-term prosperity.
Meetings with President Ranil Wickremesinghe and Foreign Minister Ali Sabry focused on advancing Sri Lanka’s IMF program objectives, with emphasis placed on safeguarding human rights and fundamental freedoms, including the freedom of expression. Discussions also explored avenues for enhancing defense and maritime cooperation between the United States and Sri Lanka, with a focus on bolstering the capabilities of the Sri Lanka Navy to ensure national security and foster stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
Highlighting a significant milestone in defense cooperation, Verma announced the United States’ intent to transfer a fourth medium endurance cutter to Sri Lanka, pending congressional approval. This transfer, supported by $9 million in Foreign Military Financing, aims to strengthen Sri Lanka’s maritime capabilities, enabling enhanced patrol operations in its Exclusive Economic Zone and facilitating security measures in the Indian Ocean’s busy sea lanes.
Joined by Sri Lanka State Minister of Defense Premitha Bandara Tennakoon and Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy Vice Admiral Priyantha Perera, Verma reaffirmed the longstanding partnership between the two nations in promoting maritime security and combatting illicit activities such as human trafficking and drug smuggling.
Verma’s visit also included a tour of the West Container Terminal (WCT) at the Port of Colombo, a critical infrastructure project financed by the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation. With an investment of $553 million, the WCT is poised to enhance Sri Lanka’s shipping capacity, positioning Colombo as a premier logistics hub in the South Asian region. Operating at near capacity since 2021, the terminal is expected to bolster trade connectivity and stimulate economic growth while mitigating sovereign debt concerns for Sri Lanka.
The visit underscores the United States’ commitment to fostering mutually beneficial partnerships and supporting Sri Lanka’s aspirations for sustainable economic development and regional security.
