US Defence Secy calls President

United State Secretary of Defense Dr. Mark T. Esper

The United State Secretary of Defense Dr. Mark T. Esper had spoken with President Gotabaya Rajapaksa over the phone on Sunday, the U.S. Department of Defense said in a media release.

During the call, Secretary Esper congratulated the President on his successful handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and the recent conclusion of parliamentary elections.

The Secretary has also urged continued progress on reconciliation and human rights in Sri Lanka and discussed enhancing bilateral defense relations.

“Reviewing common bilateral defense priorities, they noted opportunities to enhance military professionalization, counter-terrorism, and maritime security cooperation. Both leaders expressed their commitment to expanding bilateral defense relations and to advancing shared interests,” the release said.

The two leaders have also discussed their shared commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific that ensures the sovereignty of all nations.

Following the call Secretary Esper tweeted that he had a good talk with the President.

“Good talk today with Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa. We discussed our cooperation in responding to COVID 19 & the international security environment. We look to deepen CT & maritime security cooperation, and I encouraged continued progress on human rights & reconciliation in Sri Lanka.”