Current U.S policy in Sri Lanka aims to support the country’s democratic institutions, encourage its economic development, counter terrorism, and to promote a free, open, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region.
The United States looks forward to continued counter terrorism cooperation, the US report revealed adding that the two countries are also discussing a $480 million Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) compact supporting Sri Lanka’s economic development.
The United States also provided $39 million in Foreign Military Financing to enhance Sri Lanka’s maritime domain awareness
Both governments intend to promote further economic cooperation and exchanges in maritime security and safety, and agree to continue the pursuit of joint initiatives to enhance security, stability, transparency, and economic opportunity for mutual benefit.
Bilateral military and maritime cooperation have seen a significant uptick since Sri Lanka’s 2015 elections.
Key activities include U.S. Navy port calls, a partnership with the Sri Lanka Navy to establish a Sri Lankan Marine Corps, and exercises with the Sri Lankan Navy and Air Force to build cooperation on humanitarian assistance and disaster relief and maritime security issues toward a safe and prosperous Indo-Pacific.
This was revealed in bilateral relations fact sheet issued by US Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs on Monday 8.
The U.S. has made substantial investments in agriculture, enterprise development, education, healthcare, energy and natural resources, and humanitarian activities.
Following the April 2019 Easter attacks, the United States sent FBI experts to support the investigation.
(LI)