US Under Secretary for Public Diplomacy and Public Affairs, Elizabeth Allen, held discussions with Sri Lanka’s Foreign Secretary Aruni Wijewardane, focusing on enhancing bilateral ties and addressing recent positive developments between the two nations.
In a significant diplomatic engagement, US Under Secretary for Public Diplomacy and Public Affairs, Elizabeth Allen, convened with Sri Lanka’s Foreign Secretary Aruni Wijewardane on Saturday, February 17th, to deliberate on recent positive strides in the 75th anniversary year of Sri Lanka-US diplomatic relations.
Their meeting at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs centered on reinforcing US support towards Sri Lanka’s economic stability, with a commitment to ongoing assistance from the United States. Emphasis was placed on augmenting people-to-people connections and outreach to the Diaspora community as integral facets of bilateral collaboration.
Foreign Secretary Wijewardane expressed gratitude for the US International Development Finance Corporation’s development assistance to the Colombo West International Terminal Private Limited in November 2023, alongside acknowledging humanitarian aid efforts that aided Sri Lanka in navigating economic challenges. Additionally, she welcomed US involvement in facilitating the Extended Fund Facility Programme (EFF) under the IMF, underscoring its significance for Sri Lanka’s economic trajectory.
In the dialogue, Foreign Secretary Wijewardane briefed Under Secretary Allen on economic and reconciliation advancements, along with Sri Lanka’s focal points as Chair of the Indian Ocean Rim Association.
Accompanying Under Secretary Allen were Ambassador Julie Chung and officials from the Department of State, alongside representatives from the US Embassy in Colombo. The meeting also saw the participation of senior officials from the Foreign Ministry.
Under Secretary Allen, who commenced her visit to Sri Lanka earlier in the day, received a warm reception from US Ambassador Julie Chung upon her arrival.
During her tenure in Sri Lanka, Allen is slated to engage with government officials, media practitioners, digital influencers, and youth leaders to delve into bilateral partnerships and strategies for preserving Sri Lanka’s information and media landscape. The agenda also encompasses collaborative initiatives aimed at fostering prosperity within the island nation.
Following her engagements in Sri Lanka, Allen is scheduled to embark on a visit to India, further underscoring the United States’ commitment to strengthening ties across the region.
