SL seeks to diversify exports to U.S.

• Exports from Sri Lanka to the US amounted to US$ 3,139 million last year.  
• The U.S has to date donated almost US $6 million for combating COVID-19 

By Kelum Bandara   

The government has sought to diversify its exports to the United States, informed sources said. 

Foreign Relations Minister Dinesh Gunawardane is reported to have discussed the matter with U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo during their telephone conversation on Monday evening.

The U.S. is the top export destination for Sri Lanka. The total exports totaled US$ 3,139 million last year. Informed sources said that a bulk of it was from the apparel sector.   
The U.S. State Department spokesperson Morgan Ortagus commented after the telephone conversation and said , “Secretary of State Michael R.Pompeo spoke today (Monday) with the Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Dinesh Gunawardena to reaffirm our partnership with the people of Sri Lanka and our commitment to supporting the country’s development and sovereignty. Secretary Pompeo and Foreign Minister Gunawardena discussed our mutual interest in combating the COVID-19 pandemic and shared commitment to economic stability and sustainable growth. The two leaders also discussed the United States’ ongoing COVID-19 assistance to Sri Lanka, which totals almost $6 million to date, and reviewed the longstanding U.S.-Sri Lankan cooperation on health and humanitarian issues. Additionally, the Secretary and the Foreign Minister talked about our shared democratic traditions, respect for human rights, and the importance of transparency for the long-term stability and prosperity of our people.