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New US envoy upbeat on Sri Lanka’s prospects

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2 October 2015 02:32 am - 0     - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

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By Shabiya Ali Ahlam
The world’s leading economy is eying Sri Lanka with keen interest as it is confident with the dawn of the new regime, there is firm commitment in boosting bilateral trade and investments that would allow both nations to reap benefits.

Newly appointed United States Ambassador to Sri Lanka and Maldives Atul Keshap said while he is convinced there is a “golden opportunity” to ensure bilateral business relations to fully blossom, he observes there is a strong partnership with a government that shares the commitment of the US in strengthening economic ties.  

“We look forward to real progress in important economic sectors, such as energy, transport and others, where U.S. companies have put forward specific proposals to the government. 

“The successful advancement of any one of these proposals will help to send the right message to global players to look seriously at Sri Lanka, which can stimulate much needed Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) to promote broad based economic growth,” said the upbeat ambassador at the 23rd Annual General Meeting of the American Chamber of Commerce (AMCHAM).

He expressed these sentiments while commending the efforts of President Maithripala Sirisena and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe in implementing a reform agenda, aimed at establishing transparent governance. 

Keshap pointed out that the measures taken tolevel the business playing field has renewed confidence to other foreign companies and investors looking to do business in Sri Lanka.

“The commitment to combating corruption and establishing greater transparency and the government’s pledge to promote reconciliation are encouraging evidence that the Sri Lankan government understands the vital importance of attracting investment and building businesses. 

“We look forward to continued commitment by the government to effectively conclude ongoing investigations into past decisions that have weakened investor confidence,” he added.

Furthermore, Keshap shared the intent of the US government in assisting its Sri Lankan partners to carry out reforms aimed at making the country a more attractive place to do business, which would enable the nation to realise its enormous economic potential. 

“The potential dividends for US companies looking to do business in Sri Lanka are significant, and the opportunity to reap that potential has never been greater.  Interest in Sri Lanka is increasing around the globe as a result of the extraordinary changes that have taken place over the past nine months,” expressed Keshap.

Last week the US Agency for International Development (USAID) finalised a $2-million award to carry out a 12-month project aimed at strengthening the government’s management of public finances, whereas on Tuesday (29) the US Embassy entered into an agreement with the Foreign Ministry for a $2.6 million program to boost cooperation on justice sector reform and capacity building on addressing complex crimes and advancing the rule of law.  

It was shared that the embassy has planned $ 40 million in bilateral cooperation to be implemented over the next few years.

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