US Applauds Sri Lanka's 'Clean Sri Lanka' Initiative

COLOMBO (News 1st); The United States of America has praised the new government of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake for its dedication to economic reforms and anti-corruption measures. 

US Ambassador to Sri Lanka, Julie Chung, said that as the United States prepares to inaugurate President Trump there will be a transition of the US Ambassador to Sri Lanka later this year, 

"We welcome the Sri Lankan government’s commitment to staying on track with the IMF program and finalization of its international sovereign bond restructuring, to its commitment to combatting corruption and working with partners like AmCham to create a transparent, rules-based investment climate that will drive growth. ," said Ambassador Chung highlighting the importance of Sri Lanka's adherence to the IMF program and the finalization of its international sovereign bond restructuring.

She noted that while stability is a crucial first step, the more challenging task lies in fostering growth, productivity, and sustainable economic practices.

The launch of the "Clean Sri Lanka" initiative, which aims to reset the country's political and economic culture, was also commended.

Ambassador Chung expressed optimism about the concrete steps that will be taken to fulfill this pledge of reforms, including the potential restructuring of inefficient state-owned enterprises, honoring contracts, and ensuring a level playing field for foreign companies.

"With the launch of the government’s “Clean Sri Lanka” that indicates not just a clean environment but a resetting of political and economic culture, we look forward to seeing what concrete steps are made and how we can all contribute to this pledge of reforms, whether it’s on anti corruption or beyond. Will inefficient state-owned enterprises be reformed? Will contracts be honored? Will foreign companies have a level playing field and not face protectionist policies? Where will AI take us in business?," added Julie Chung.


Addressing global challenges, Ambassador Chung acknowledged the impact of shipping delays caused by Houthi attacks in the Red Sea, economic headwinds from Russia's aggression against Ukraine, and other political flashpoints. She stressed the importance of planning, mitigating, and navigating these challenges effectively.

The United States, she noted, is already supporting Sri Lanka through Development Finance Corporation loans for SMEs, entrepreneurial training, and technical assistance from the Treasury Department and USAID on renewable energy, procurement, and tax revenue reform. As the leading export market for Sri Lanka, the US continues to be a significant contributor to the Sri Lankan economy.