Sri Lanka–United States relations

Sri Lanka-United States relations are bilateral relations between Sri Lanka and the United States.

History

The United States enjoys cordial relations with Sri Lanka that are based, in large part, on shared democratic traditions. U.S. policy toward Sri Lanka is characterized by respect for its independence, sovereignty, and moderate nonaligned foreign policy; support for the country's unity, territorial integrity, and democratic institutions; and encouragement of its social and economic development. The United States is a strong supporter of ethnic reconciliation in Sri Lanka and the peace process that began in December 2001.

U.S. assistance has totaled more than $1.63 billion since Sri Lanka's independence in 1948. Through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), it has contributed to Sri Lanka's economic growth with projects designed to reduce unemployment, improve housing, develop the Colombo Stock Exchange, modernize the judicial system, and improve competitiveness. At the June 2003 Tokyo Donors' Conference on Sri Lanka, the United States pledged $54 million, including $40.4 million of USAID funding. Following the 2004 tsunami, the United States is providing $135 million in relief and reconstruction assistance.

In addition, the International Broadcast Bureau (IBB)--formerly Voice of America (VOA)--operates a radio-transmitting station in Sri Lanka. The U.S. Armed Forces maintain a limited military-to-military relationship with the Sri Lanka defense establishment.

Principal U.S. Embassy Officials include:
* Ambassador--Robert O. Blake
* Deputy Chief of Mission--James R. Moore
* Head of Political Section--Michael DeTar
* Head of Economic/Commercial Section--Robert Gabor
* Management Officer--Maria Brewer
* Consular Officer--Christopher Green
* Defense Attaché--Lt. Col. James Oxley
* Director, USAID--Rebecca Cohn
* Public Affairs Officer--Terry White
* IBB Station Manager--William Martin

The U.S. Embassy in Sri Lanka is located in Colombo, as are U.S. Agency for International Development offices and Public Affairs offices. IBB offices are located near Chilaw, 75 km north of Colombo.

See also

* Foreign relations of Sri Lanka
* Foreign relations of the United States

References

StateDept [http://www.state.gov/r/pa/ei/bgn/5249.htm]