US says eager to build on partnership with Sri Lanka and advance shared interests in Indo-Pacific region
The United States has reportedly stated that it remains eager to build on the partnership with Sri Lanka and advance shared interests in the Indo-Pacific region, US Secretary of State Michael Pompeo has said.
Pompeo has made this observation in a message on the occasion of Sri Lanka’s National Day.
Extending wishes for peace and happiness in the year ahead, Secretary Pompeo has said the US is looking forward to working together to further deepen the ties between the two nations.
Following is the full text of Secretary Pompeo’s message:
“On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I extend to Sri Lanka very warm wishes as you commemorate your national day.
“The United States remains eager to build on our partnership with Sri Lanka and advance shared interests in the Indo-Pacific region based on our common democratic values. Sri Lanka’s democratic institutions and constitutional processes have ensured your country’s continued advancement.
“We look forward to working together to further deepen ties between our nations, promote shared prosperity, and secure a stable and peaceful future.
“As you celebrate your national day, I extend my best wishes for peace and happiness in the year ahead.”
OSL take:
The statement by the US Secretary of State is indicative of the further strengthening of bilateral ties between Sri Lanka and the US. Sri Lanka already enjoys the US GSP trade facility for local exports. The US has been a continuous development partner of Sri Lanka and is currently in the process of renegotiating a massive grant package for the island nation under the Millennium Challenge Compact. The two nations also have several defence pacts in place and carried out joint exercises annually. Given Sri Lanka’s strategic positioning in the India Ocean region, Sri Lanka plays an important role in the US’ policy on the Indian Ocean region. Therefore, US businesses/investors could explore business/investment opportunities in the Sri Lanka while local businesses could explore possibilities of forming partnerships with American businesses.
| Article Code : | VBS/AT/05022019/Z_2 |