News
Bipartisan US congressional staff delegation wraps up talks on bilateral ties with key figures
View(s):During their week-long visit, the House Democracy Partnership (HDP) delegation led by Executive Director Derek Luytenmet with several key figures, including Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya, Speaker Jagath Wickremerathna, and Opposition leader Sajith Premadasa. They also engaged with the U.S.–Sri Lanka Parliamentary Friendship Association, and took the opportunity to explore parliamentary processes, local institutions, and civil society.
The delegation explored shared priorities like security, trade, and regional cooperation and underscored the enduring partnership between the United States and Sri Lanka, reflecting mutual commitment to strong democratic institutions, effective governance, regional stability, and prosperity for both nations, a spokesperson from the US embassy in Colombo said.
As a bipartisan commission of the U.S. House of Representatives, HDP advances U.S. economic and security interests by fostering stable, effective governance in key regions worldwide, according to its official website. “By promoting accountability, transparency, and legislative capacity, HDP creates environments that support economic growth, strengthen regional security, and reinforce partnerships that benefit the United States and its allies,”
During the meeting, Prime Minister Dr Amarasuriya emphasised the importance of partnership with the U.S. Congress HDP in promoting accountability, transparency, and legislative capacity, economic growth and reinforcing partnerships in Sri Lanka.
The representatives of HDP presented their focus on working with parliament on oversight, citizen engagement and e-governance between the two countries. During the meeting, special attention was also given to the female participation in the Parliament and in national leadership and challenges faced by females in the labor force, the PM office said.
Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa pointed out to the delegation that further tariff relief was essential to Sri Lanka to overcome its ongoing economic challenges while welcoming recent the reduction of rates from 44 percent to 30 percent and 30 percent to 20 percent.
| US Navy ships make back to back calls in Colombo | |
| Coinciding with the HDP delegation the United States Ship (USS) Tulsa (LCS 16) that arrived at the Colombo port earlier this week left the island on Friday. In keeping with time- honoured naval traditions, the Sri Lanka Navy extended a customary farewell to the departing vessel at the Port. The 127.6m long Littoral Combat Ship, is capable of transporting small assault helicopters and assault forces with vehicles. The vessel is commanded by Commander KA Moyer. The previous week, another US Navy vessel (USS) Santa Barbara (LCS 32) called at the Colombo port. The 127.6 m – long Littoral Combat ship is part of the U.S – 7th fleet. |
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