Sri Lanka welcomes defence cooperation with the U.S. in the Indo-Pacific region: Minister

Sri Lanka welcomes the defence cooperation with the U.S. in the Indo-Pacific region and training and capacity-building opportunities offered to Sri Lankan military officials throughout the year, according to Justice Minister Harshana Nanayakkara.

Making his remarks at the reception to mark the 249th Anniversary of the Independence Day of the United States on Thursday, he said Sri Lanka acknowledges the strong support extended by the United States during the economic crisis. In spite of the numerous challenges that Sri Lanka faced with the pandemic and the recent economic crisis, the people of Sri Lanka have remained resilient. We appreciate the crucial assistance extended by the United States in helping Sri Lanka to obtain the Extended Fund Facility (EFF) from the IMF and to conclude discussions with the bilateral partners on debt restructuring.

“Following the elections and with the strong democratic institutions, Sri Lanka has been able to make the much-needed transition towards both political and economic stability in the country, reinforcing the public’s trust in its governance and reform efforts,” he said.

The Minister said trade has been a cornerstone of the bilateral relationship, fostering economic growth as the U.S. remains the largest single destination for Sri Lankan exports. Sri Lanka’s total annual exports to the U.S. have exceeded US$ 3 billion in recent years.

“In this context, we continue to engage with the U.S. at a closer level with positive commitment to address the trade deficit between the two countries and to work on lowering the barriers affecting bilateral trade and reaching an agreement to ensure equitable and mutually beneficial trade relations,” he said.

“We are also pleased to observe the increasing trend of the U.S. investor confidence in Sri Lanka,” he added.

U.S. Ambassador Julie Chung said, “We’re so glad you’ve joined us tonight to accompany us on a “Great American Road Trip.” This tradition, in which families drive to see parts of our beautiful country and find time to connect, encounter new regions and foods, and build memories, is a treasured holiday for so many Americans. What better way to celebrate America’s independence than by sharing with all of you just a few examples of our awe-inspiring landscapes, our rich cultural heritage, and the spirit of exploration and adventure that has defined the United States 

since 1776.

Tonight, we’re bringing the spirit of the great American Road Trip right here to Sri Lanka —a country where Americans and Sri Lankans have journeyed together for centuries, from early American visitors like Mark Twain, Henry Steel Olcott, and Harriett Winslow, on a road paved with mutual respect and deep friendship.

So come take a road trip with us from the sun-soaked beaches of California to the red rocks of the Southwest desert, from the rolling Midwestern farmlands to bustling East Coast cities. The American road trip has long been a symbol of freedom—a chance to explore—often off the main highways, to connect with people throughout our heartland, and to discover the stories that unite us. For over 76 years, the United States and Sri Lanka have travelled a long road together—facing challenges, supporting each other’s progress, and making steady strides toward shared goals.

Together, we’ve strengthened global security, expanded educational ties, created economic opportunities, promoted regional stability, and supported safer, more open sea lanes vital to global trade.

Every good road trip also includes some bumps or flat tires along the way.

I have fond memories of my childhood family road trips, riding in our Dodge Van to many national parks, loaded up with our camping equipment, from Mount Rushmore to Yellowstone to Grand Teton, stopping by at diners and rest stops, picking up postcards along the way, and my dad with this giant VHS video camera on his shoulders. We encountered bears, fights with my sister over snacks, and yes, flat tires. More recently during COVID, when my husband, son, and I went on trips to Gettysburg, Philadelphia, and Harper’s Ferry to learn more about America’s civil war history. It’s how we interact and respond to challenges together—that defines the strength of our relationship, like it did in my family. Through it all, we have remained committed to a common vision: a peaceful, prosperous future for Americans and Sri Lankans.”