Handling of COVID-19 pandemic US Defence Secy commends President

Discusses military professionalisation

• Both leaders expressed their commitment to expanding bilateral defence relations 

US Secretary of Defence, Dr. Mark T. Esper, contacted President Gotabaya Rajapaksa on Sunday and congratulated him on his successful handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, the US Department of Defence said.   

In a statement, the Department said Secretary Esper also congratulated the President on the recently concluded parliamentary elections and urged continued progress on reconciliation and human rights in Sri Lanka.   
During the call, the two leaders have discussed their shared commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific that ensures the sovereignty of all nations.   

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

• Secretary Esper also congratulated the President on the recently  concluded parliamentary elections and urged continued progress on  reconciliation and human rights in Sri Lanka