US Ambassador to Sri Lanka Julie Chung said the US-Lanka relationships have reached unprecedented highs and are further growing with her country’s continued commitment to Sri Lanka’s security and prosperity, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region.
Addressing the members of Rotary Clubs at a special event at the Ivy Room of the Cinnamon Grand Colombo on Wednesday, the Ambassador said: “Our bilateral relationship is strong and enduring. The United States and Sri Lanka share a century-long economic partnership, and as Sri Lanka strengthens its economy, the potential for American companies in industries like energy, infrastructure, agribusiness, technology, and tourism is immense.”
The event, which brought together business leaders and community figures, provided Ambassador Chung with an opportunity to reflect on the strong and enduring relationship between the two countries.
In her remarks, Ambassador Chung highlighted the rich history of bilateral relations between the two nations, dating back to the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1948. She emphasized the shared values, mutual respect, and commitment to democratic principles that have shaped the partnership.
“We have worked together across various fields including economic development, education, and national security, and our cooperation has reached far beyond government-to-government relations to enrich the lives of people in both countries,” Chung said. “Our partnership is truly wide-ranging, and it’s wonderful to see the Rotary Club’s role in fostering the people-to-people connections.”
Ambassador Chung praised the longstanding US programmes in Sri Lanka, such as the Fulbright Commission, which has been active for over 70 years, and the return of the US Peace Corps volunteers in 2023, which have strengthened the educational and cultural bonds between the two nations. She also emphasized the significant role of Rotary in bridging the gap between the US and Sri Lanka, with shared values of service, leadership, and community development.
“Rotary’s work in promoting peace, countering diseases, and fostering entrepreneurship aligns closely with the shared goals of both the US and Sri Lanka,” Chung remarked. “Your efforts in projects such as Little Hearts, Healing Minds Matter, and Ability Plus are making a real difference across Sri Lanka and will continue to yield positive outcomes as the country recovers economically.”
The Ambassador also underscored the importance of economic growth in strengthening the relationship between the two countries. She noted that a stable and prosperous economy creates opportunities for investment, job creation, and innovation. Ambassador Chung highlighted President Trump’s vision for trade, emphasising that the US is committed to creating a favourable investment climate not only for American businesses but also for Sri Lankan companies.
“Our bilateral relationship is strong and enduring,” said Chung. “The United States and Sri Lanka share a century-long economic partnership, and as Sri Lanka strengthens its economy, the potential for American companies in industries like energy, infrastructure, agribusiness, technology, and tourism is immense.”
Ambassador Chung also touched on the United States’ continued commitment to Sri Lanka’s security and prosperity, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region. She mentioned key initiatives such as US Navy port calls, the establishment of the Sri Lankan Marine Corps, and the donation of a King Air maritime patrol aircraft, which have significantly enhanced Sri Lanka’s maritime security and surveillance capabilities.
“The United States is proud to be Sri Lanka’s largest export market, and we are working together to boost trade and security cooperation across the Indo-Pacific,” she said.
The Ambassador concluded by expressing optimism for the future of US-Sri Lanka relations, emphasizing that both nations’ shared commitment to democratic principles and economic progress will continue to drive cooperation. She thanked the Rotary Club members for their dedication to service and their role in strengthening the bonds between the two nations.
“Our partnership, built on people, progress, and partnership, will thrive as we work together to build a safer, stronger, and more prosperous future for both of our nations,” Ambassador Chung concluded. “I look forward to many more years of collaboration and success.”
