Health Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa met with United States Ambassador to Sri Lanka Julie Chung in Colombo on Thursday (11), where the two officials held discussions focused on strengthening and expanding Sri Lanka’s healthcare system for the benefit of all citizens.
During the meeting, Ambassador Chung expressed the United States’ continued commitment to supporting Sri Lanka’s health sector, noting that numerous US-based donors are ready to contribute medicines and essential medical supplies to local hospitals.
Minister Jayatissa conveyed his sincere appreciation for the invaluable assistance provided by the US Government, particularly through the regular supply of medicines and medical equipment. He also welcomed the offer of technical expertise and knowledge sharing to enhance the healthcare system’s efficiency and resilience.
The Minister raised the issue of rising dengue and chikungunya cases, highlighting that the Government has taken all feasible preventive measures, including community outreach. “The Health Department conducts seminars and health camps to raise public awareness, and these efforts are already showing positive results,” he said.
Reflecting on the historical ties between the two nations, Minister Jayatissa noted that the Thriposha nutritional programme, which continues to benefit Sri Lankan children, was made possible through the establishment of a US-supported manufacturing facility in 1973.
In addition to health-related topics, the Minister informed the Ambassador about ongoing efforts to foster a positive media environment in the country, including the proposed establishment of a Chartered Media Institution to support and uplift professional standards in the media sector.
Ambassador Chung responded positively, reaffirming that the US Government is keen to assist both Sri Lanka’s healthcare and media sectors, especially by sharing knowledge, resources, and advanced technologies to support national development goals.
