Sri Lanka has sought continued support from the US to mitigate the economic challenges in the country.
Minister of Foreign Affairs Prof. G.L. Peiris met U.S. Ambassador Julie Chung at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and held wide-ranging discussions on bilateral relations, current domestic developments and assistance from the international community in mitigating the challenges facing the country.
The Foreign Minister stated that the Government is focused on exploring all possible avenues in the provision of short and long-term solutions in alleviating the difficulties encountered by the people and in the implementation of a clear plan of action.
In this context, Foreign Minister Prof. Peiris indicated that Sri Lanka is deeply appreciative of the goodwill and assistance being received from the international community including from multilateral organizations.
The Foreign Minister encouraged continued support from the US and other countries, both bilaterally and through multilateral channels, to mitigate the economic challenges in Sri Lanka.
Foreign Minister Peiris also apprised the US Ambassador of the efforts being taken by the Government to promote and maintain the rule of law and order in the country, while respecting the rights of all to the freedom of expression and assembly.
He also briefed the Ambassador on the discussions with different political parties with regard to the draft 21st Amendment to the Constitution. The Foreign Minister assured Ambassador Chung that despite current economic challenges, the Government remains fully committed to addressing reconciliation related issues.
Ambassador Chung stated that the United States is a friend of Sri Lanka and is well aware of and understands the challenges in the country. She stated that the United States will continue to support Sri Lanka during this difficult time.
In previous meetings U.S. Ambassador to Sri Lanka, Julie Chung says she is hopeful the government, including the new Prime Minister, would be able to bring about political stability and overcome the current economic crisis.
Her remarks came during a meeting with Speaker Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena on Friday (May 27) at the Parliament Premises.
The U.S. envoy also emphasized the need to carry out the political reforms desired by the people and to safeguard democracy in the country.
Ambassador Chung further said that she hopes to enhance relations between the two countries through the Sri Lanka-USA Parliamentary Friendship Association.
She appreciated the role played by the Women Parliamentarians Caucus and discussed the need to increase the representation of women.
The Speaker also expressed his gratitude to the United States of America for its continued support to strengthen democracy in Sri Lanka.
This is the first meeting between Ambassador Chung and the Speaker since her appointment as U.S. envoy to Sri Lanka.
The U.S. envoy and the Speaker were joined by Secretary General of Parliament Mr. Dhammika Dasanayake during this meeting.
