During a high-level visit to Sri Lanka, Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia Donald Lu underscored the United States’ commitment to advancing economic recovery, democratic governance, and regional security in partnership with Sri Lanka. This marked the first significant U.S. engagement with Sri Lanka’s new government.
The U.S. Embassy emphasized the importance of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) programme as a cornerstone of Sri Lanka’s economic recovery and resilience. Encouraging continued engagement with the IMF, the U.S. stressed the need for sustainable growth and improved livelihoods for the Sri Lankan people.
Assistant Secretary Lu, joined by USAID Deputy Assistant Administrator Anjali Kaur and Treasury Deputy Assistant Secretary Robert Kaproth, reaffirmed U.S. support for Sri Lanka’s reform agenda. Their discussions focused on anti-corruption, accountability, and sustainable economic growth, highlighting these areas as critical to strengthening democratic governance and regional stability.
Addressing corruption, a U.S. Embassy spokesperson stated that corruption undermines economic progress, security, and public trust. The U.S. is supporting Sri Lanka’s anti-corruption efforts through initiatives such as:
- Strengthening legal frameworks and enforcement mechanisms.
- Providing training for investigators and prosecutors.
- Building institutional capacity to enhance transparency and accountability.
- Supporting civil society to promote good governance and raise awareness.
These initiatives aim to foster trust, ensure responsible use of public resources, and create a transparent, equitable environment for all Sri Lankans.
Regarding potential policy shifts under President-elect Donald Trump, the spokesperson clarified that U.S. foreign policy remains guided by long-standing commitments to democracy, economic growth, and regional security. They added that President Joe Biden’s administration would continue to work diligently on key issues until the transition of power on January 20, 2025.
This visit highlights the enduring partnership between Sri Lanka and the United States, with a shared focus on overcoming economic challenges and fostering democratic resilience.
Source – dailymirror.lk
