Vavuniya, February 23: U.S. Ambassador to Sri Lanka Alaina B. Teplitz inaugurated a U.S.-funded online education platform today that connects students and teachers from different regions and responds to education challenges posed by COVID-19 restrictions. These “Smart Classrooms” connect Sinhala and Tamil speakers and provide remote schools with access to teachers trained in science and technology. ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 23 February, 2021 | Topics: News, Press Releases
COVID-19 Information – Sri Lanka Last updated: February 11, 2021 Effective January 26, all airline passengers to the United States ages two years and older must provide a negative COVID-19 viral test taken within three calendar days (72 hours) of travel. Alternatively, travelers to the U.S. may provide documentation from a licensed health care provider ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 11 February, 2021 | Topics: Alert
February 3, 2021 Sri Lanka National Day On behalf of the American people, I send sincere congratulations to the people of Sri Lanka as you celebrate the 73rd anniversary of your independence. On this day, the people of Sri Lanka and the United States celebrate our shared principles to protect and promote democracy, human rights, the rule of ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 4 February, 2021 | Topics: News, Press Releases
(February 2, 2021) Location: Colombo, Sri Lanka Event: Due to the Sri Lanka Independence Day rehearsals and celebrations, multiple roads in Colombo will be subject to closures until Thursday February 4, 2021. 2-3 February: certain roads will be closed from 06:00 AM to 01:00 PM. On 4 February roads will be closed from 04:00 AM to ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 2 February, 2021 | Topics: Alert
The U.S. Government committed a $40 million loan to Sri Lanka’s SDB bank to support small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and women entrepreneurs. The loan from the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC), the U.S. Government’s development bank, aims to support private sector investment and economic growth in Sri Lanka. DFC partners with the private ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 2 February, 2021 | Topics: News, Press Releases
January 29: The United States, in coordination with zonal and provincial education and health services authorities, is setting up health rooms at 120 schools around the country, an initiative to support the health and well-being of thousands of Sri Lankan students. The health rooms promote Ministry of Education recommendations to ensure basic precautionary measures against ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 29 January, 2021 | Topics: News, Press Releases
January 13: The United States donated a mobile testing unit to the Regional Health Services in Moneragala, received by Dr. B.M.C. Dasanayaka, as part of the effort to fight COVID-19 in Sri Lanka and protect lives through early detection. The mobile unit will administer PCR tests and provide vital health services to 100 people daily in ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 13 January, 2021 | Topics: News, Press Releases
U.S. Department of Justice News Release: Three Foreign Nationals Charged in Federal Court in Los Angeles with Conspiring to Provide Material Support to ISIS The men allegedly were members of a group of ISIS supporters that carried out terrorist attacks in Sri Lanka on Easter Day in 2019, killing 268 people
English (PDF 280 KB)
Sinhala (සිංහල) (PDF ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 9 January, 2021 | Topics: News, Press Releases
COLOMBO, December 17, 2020: On December 15, the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) board decided to discontinue the proposed Rs. 89 billion MCC development assistance grant to Sri Lanka due to lack of partner country engagement. The Rs. 89 billion approved for Sri Lanka will be made available to other eligible partner countries in need of grant ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 17 December, 2020 | Topics: News, Press Releases
December 10, 2020: The United States launched a new LKR 3.6 billion (USD 19.5 million) initiative to help small businesses and economically empower Sri Lankan women. The Private Sector Development Project, which is funded through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), will provide technical assistance and financing to small businesses in the tourism, technology, and commercial care industries. ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 10 December, 2020 | Topics: News, Press Releases
November 10, 2020 Thank you very much and good afternoon. Excellencies, distinguished panelists, participants, Foreign Secretary, I’m very pleased to be able to join everyone at the opening of this conference to discuss the complexities of security in the Indian Ocean region, particularly at this moment after Secretary Pompeo’s successful visit to India, Sri Lanka ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 11 November, 2020 | Topics: News, Speeches
October 28, 2020 QUESTION: Secretary Pompeo, on behalf of national television Rupavahini (inaudible), I would like to thank you for providing this great opportunity for us, and it’s a great pleasure and honor for us to have this very important dialogue with you, sir. SECRETARY POMPEO: It’s wonderful to be with you. It’s been great ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 30 October, 2020 | Topics: Exclude, Former U.S. Government Leaders | Tags: Former U.S. Government Leaders
QUESTION: Thank you for your time here with us in Colombo, Secretary Pompeo. Your visit here is termed crucial. It’s seen as a rare one and peculiar given the timing of the visit. What’s so important that you had to communicate at this juncture? SECRETARY POMPEO: Well, thanks for giving me a chance to be ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 29 October, 2020 | Topics: Former U.S. Government Leaders
October 28, 2020 The below is attributable to Principal Deputy Spokesperson Cale Brown: Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo met today with Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Secretary Pompeo reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to a strong, sovereign Sri Lanka and to advancing our shared interests in a free and open ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 29 October, 2020 | Topics: Former U.S. Government Leaders
FOREIGN MINISTER GUNAWARDENA: Honorable Michael Pompeo, Secretary of State of the United States, (inaudible) minister of state, madam ambassador, members of the delegation. Mr. Secretary, firstly I must welcome you and your delegation to Sri Lanka with warm and pleasant weather and (inaudible). Tomorrow, the 29th of October, 2020, marks the significant milestone of the ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 28 October, 2020 | Topics: Former U.S. Government Leaders
FACT SHEET OFFICE OF THE SPOKESPERSON OCTOBER 27, 2020 “Our relationship is based on common democratic values, and the United States steadfastly supports Sri Lanka’s vibrant democracy and its sovereignty.” – U.S. Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo, February 3, 2020 Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo will travel to Colombo, Sri Lanka, October 27-28, ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 28 October, 2020 | Topics: Former U.S. Government Leaders
By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 27 October, 2020 | Topics: Exclude, News
Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo will travel to New Delhi, India; Colombo, Sri Lanka; Malé, Maldives; and Jakarta, Indonesia October 25 – 30. In New Delhi, Secretary Pompeo and Secretary of Defense Mark T. Esper and their Indian counterparts will lead the third annual U.S.-India 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue to advance the U.S.-India Comprehensive Global ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 22 October, 2020 | Topics: Former U.S. Government Leaders
September 29, 2020 I’m pleased to be here and have a chance to see people in person as opposed to virtually which was our fashion for so long. I want to thank Presantha and the rest of the board, and of course Vrai and the team at the American Chamber for inviting me this evening ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 1 October, 2020 | Topics: Ambassador, News, Speeches
September 17, 2020 Good evening. It’s a pleasure to see everybody live and in person after months of virtual meetings or having to forego contact altogether. So, it’s a little exciting to actually be joining you here at the fourth Annual General Meeting. And thank you, Asanka, for inviting me to speak. I really appreciate ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 29 September, 2020 | Topics: Ambassador, News, Speeches
COLOMBO, September 24 – U.S. Ambassador to Sri Lanka and Maldives Alaina B. Teplitz donated Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to Sri Lanka’s Minister of Health, Hon Pavithra Wanniarachchi yesterday as part of the United States’ on-going assistance to Sri Lanka in its response to COVID-19. The donation includes 23,000 masks, 24,000 nitrile gloves, 600 isolation gowns with ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 24 September, 2020 | Topics: Press Releases
August 26, 2020 Distinguished guests, teachers, staff and students, as-salamu alaykum, Vannakum, Ayubowan and good morning. I’m pleased to be here today to help formally open this beautiful addition to the Khoonitheevu school, and most importantly, to meet with some of the engaging young people who are studying here. Thank you for giving me the ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 14 September, 2020 | Topics: News, Speeches
COLOMBO, September 02 – The United States Government, through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), has donated 200 brand-new, state-of-the-art ventilators to Sri Lanka, delivering on President Trump’s offer of critically needed supplies and supporting Sri Lanka’s fight against COVID-19. The ventilators were handed over to Sri Lanka’s Minister of Health Hon. Pavithra Wanniarachchi by ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 2 September, 2020 | Topics: News, Press Releases
SAMPUR, August 31 – U.S. Ambassador to Sri Lanka Alaina B. Teplitz opened the new Khoonethivu Navalar school in Sampur on August 26. The new facilities include a two-story classroom building with eight classrooms, a rainwater harvesting system with a 30,000 liter storage tank, and washrooms with facilities for both male and female students, teachers, and people with disabilities. The United States and the Sri Lankan ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 1 September, 2020 | Topics: News, Press Releases
Colombo, August 25 – On June 15, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) handed over a U.S.-funded COVID-19 test kit to the Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo. The test kit carries supplies to conduct 2,000 tests. Valued at an estimated $118,000, the kit contains a RT-PCR machine, the most reliable and efficient technology utilized for COVID-19 testing to date, and accessories such ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 25 August, 2020 | Topics: News, Press Releases
COLOMBO, AUGUST 10 – The U.S. Government, through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), awarded US $1.5 million to the Sarvodaya Shramadana Movement to support local community leaders in developing emergency response and mitigation strategies in disaster-prone areas across Sri Lanka. The new funding will strengthen community resilience and improve coordination between local stakeholders and international ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 10 August, 2020 | Topics: News, Press Releases
Reconsider travel to Sri Lanka due to COVID-19. Exercise increased caution in Sri Lanka due to terrorism. Read the Department of State’s
COVID-19 page before you plan any international travel. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a level 3 Travel Health Notice for Sri Lanka due to COVID-19. Sri Lanka has lifted stay at home orders, and resumed some transportation options and business operations. Visit the Embassy’s
COVID-19 page ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 7 August, 2020 | Topics: Alert
On August 5, the people of Sri Lanka exercised a fundamental democratic right and went to the polls to elect their next parliament. The United States congratulates Sri Lanka on conducting the elections in a peaceful and orderly manner despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. As the new parliament convenes, we hope the ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 7 August, 2020 | Topics: News, Press Releases
COLOMBO, JULY 27 – The United States is helping Sri Lankan apparel producers to export Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to the United States. In partnership with the Joint Apparel Association Forum (JAAF) and the Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB), the program included two webinars for over 100 industry participants that prepared them to break into the U.S. market. The ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 27 July, 2020 | Topics: News, Press Releases
July 22, 2020 Location: Sri Lanka Event: COVID-19 in Sri Lanka. New information is listed in the top bullets. Recent Updates: The
Sri Lanka Ministry of Health confirmed 2,730 cases of COVID-19 in Sri Lanka. American citizens with questions on entry requirements to the United States may visit the
Department of Homeland Security COVID-19 website . Parliamentary elections are scheduled on 5 August 2020. Campaigning may lead to large, unplanned gatherings. The U.S. Embassy advises citizens to avoid large gatherings for reasons of ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 22 July, 2020 | Topics: Alert, Messages for U.S. Citizens, Security & Emergency Messages
BENTOTA, JULY 13 – On July 10, U.S. Ambassador to Sri Lanka and Maldives Alaina B. Teplitz handed over a donation of rescue boat engines and other lifesaving equipment to Mr. Asanka Nanayakkara, President of Sri Lanka Life Saving to contribute to Sri Lanka’s efforts to improve water safety. This equipment will greatly increase the ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 13 July, 2020 | Topics: News, Press Releases
July 7, 2020 Location: Sri Lanka Event: COVID-19 in Sri Lanka. Updates are being sent regularly for the benefit of new registrants in STEP. New information is listed in the top bullets. Recent Updates: Several airlines are now providing limited commercial flights departing Sri Lanka. The
Sri Lanka Ministry of Health confirmed 2,077 cases of COVID-19 in Sri Lanka. The Sri Lankan
Department of Immigration has extended the validity period of ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 7 July, 2020 | Topics: Alert, Messages for U.S. Citizens
There continues to be false information in the public domain on MCC-funded land projects around the globe. Here are the facts: MCC has terminated or partially terminated only a handful of compacts over our 16-year history, but these are the ones that seem to be the focus of continued disinformation here in Sri Lanka sadly. ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 2 July, 2020 | Topics: Exclude, News
Celebrate democracy this 4th of July by taking the necessary steps to vote in the 2020 U.S. elections! In order to vote in the November 2020 elections, all overseas U.S. citizens need to have completed a
Federal Post Card Application (FPCA) in 2020. Whether you are a first-time voter or have already received ballots and voted absentee in past elections, you must complete an FPCA each year to participate in elections as an ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 1 July, 2020 | Topics: Messages for U.S. Citizens
June 25, 2020 Location: Sri Lanka Event: COVID-19 in Sri Lanka. Updates are being sent regularly for the benefit of new registrants in STEP. New information is listed in the top bullets. Recent Updates: Several airlines are now providing limited commercial flights departing Sri Lanka. The Sri Lanka Ministry of Health confirmed 1,991 cases of COVID-19 in Sri Lanka. The Sri ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 25 June, 2020 | Topics: Alert, Messages for U.S. Citizens
Ambassador Alaina B. Teplitz Transcript of the Virtual Media Roundtable On the Record June 15, 2020 Ambassador Teplitz: Good afternoon, everyone. It’s great to see some familiar faces. I feel like we have all learned a lot during the last couple of months, particularly how to engage meaningfully across video platforms. I hope the next ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 20 June, 2020 | Topics: Ambassador, News, Press Releases, Speeches
Registering to Vote and submitting a ballot is fast, easy, and can be done from anywhere in the world! Start by confirming your voter registration with your state. Some states require absentee voters to register annually so you may need to re-register. Go to
FVAP.gov to connect to your state’s voter portal to register to vote, request a ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 16 June, 2020 | Topics: Messages for U.S. Citizens
June 16, 2020 Location: Sri Lanka Event: COVID-19 in Sri Lanka. Updates are being sent regularly for the benefit of new registrants in STEP. New information is listed in the top bullets. Recent Updates: The embassy strongly urges those who wish to return to the United States to explore commercial flight options immediately, as there is no guarantee that the U.S. ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 16 June, 2020 | Topics: Alert, Messages for U.S. Citizens
COLOMBO, JUNE 8 – On June 8, U.S. Ambassador to Sri Lanka and Maldives Alaina B. Teplitz handed over a donation of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and other materials to Major General Sudantha Ranasinghe (ret’d), Director General of the Disaster Management Centre, to contribute to Sri Lanka’s battle against the COVID-19 pandemic. The donation is part of ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 8 June, 2020 | Topics: News, Press Releases
June 4, 2020 Location: Sri Lanka Event: COVID-19 in Sri Lanka. Updates are being sent regularly for the benefit of new registrants in STEP. New information is listed in the top bullets. Recent Updates: The embassy strongly urges those who wish to return to the United States to explore commercial flight options immediately, as there is no guarantee that the ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 4 June, 2020 | Topics: Alert, Messages for U.S. Citizens, Security & Emergency Messages
Date: May 21, 2020 Location: Sri Lanka Event: COVID-19 in Sri Lanka. Updates are being sent regularly for the benefit of new registrants in STEP. New information is listed in the top bullets. Recent Updates: The embassy strongly urges those who wish to return to the United States to explore commercial flight options immediately, as there is no guarantee that the ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 21 May, 2020 | Topics: Alert, Messages for U.S. Citizens
Date: May 11, 2020 Location: Sri Lanka Event: COVID-19 in Sri Lanka. Updates are being sent regularly for the benefit of new registrants in STEP. New information is listed in the top bullets. Recent Updates: The embassy strongly urges those who wish to return to the United States to explore commercial flight options immediately, as there is no guarantee that the U.S. government ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 11 May, 2020 | Topics: Alert, Messages for U.S. Citizens
COLOMBO, May 6 – The United States announced the commitment of more than $4.5 million to help Sri Lanka in its fight against COVID-19. This brings the total U.S. contribution to $5.8 million. “This assistance continues the long tradition of U.S. support for Sri Lanka’s security and sovereignty,” said U.S. Ambassador to Sri Lanka Alaina B. ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 6 May, 2020 | Topics: News, Press Releases
FACT SHEET MAY 1, 2020 Through the American people’s generosity and the U.S. government’s action, the United States continues to demonstrate global leadership in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic. Months into fighting this pandemic at home and abroad, the United States remains the largest single country donor to the response efforts globally, building on ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 6 May, 2020 | Topics: News
Location: Sri Lanka Event: COVID-19 in Sri Lanka. Updates are being sent regularly for the benefit of new registrants in STEP. New information is listed in the top bullets. Recent Updates: The embassy strongly urges those who wish to return to the United States to explore commercial flight options immediately, as there is no guarantee ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 4 May, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Location: Sri Lanka Event: COVID-19 in Sri Lanka. Updates are being sent regularly for the benefit of new registrants in STEP. New information is listed in the top bullets. Recent Updates: The embassy strongly urges those who wish to return to the United States to explore commercial flight options immediately, as there is no guarantee that the U.S. government will be ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 22 April, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Statement by Secretary Michael R. Pompeo April 21, 2020 Today we mark the anniversary of the terrorist bombings that shattered the peace of Sri Lanka and the world on Easter morning one year ago. These malicious attacks targeted churches and hotels, places where people had gone to worship and to enjoy time together on a holiday. ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 21 April, 2020 | Topics: News, Press Releases
Location: Sri Lanka Event: COVID-19 in Sri Lanka. New information is listed in the top bullets. Recent Updates: The embassy strongly urges those who wish to return to the United States to explore commercial flight options immediately, as there is no guarantee that the U.S. government will be able to arrange evacuation flights if airspace closes.Note: Waiting and expecting to rely on an ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 15 April, 2020 | Topics: Alert, News
Location: Sri Lanka Event: COVID-19 in Sri Lanka. Updates are being sent daily for the benefit of new registrants in STEP. New information is listed in the top bullets. Recent Updates: The embassy strongly urges those who wish to return to the United States to explore commercial flight options immediately, as there is no guarantee ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 10 April, 2020 | Topics: Alert, News
COLOMBO, April 9 – The United States Government, through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has committed $1.3 million USD to help protect healthcare workers and slow the spread of the virus with infection prevention and control support. “Through even the most difficult times, Americans and Sri Lankans support one another as partners ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 9 April, 2020 | Topics: News, Press Releases
By
Dave Reynolds Mar 10, 2020 The U.S. has deployed a “whole-of-America approach” to protect citizens against the coronavirus, with federal, state and local governments, as well as private businesses, banding together to fight the disease, Vice President Pence said. President Trump on March 6 signed into law
$8.3 billion in federal funding to bolster federal and state governments’ collaborative approach to ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 9 April, 2020 | Topics: News
Location: Sri Lanka Event: COVID-19 in Sri Lanka. These updates are being sent daily for the benefit of new registrants in STEP. New information is listed in the top bullets. Recent Updates: International commercial flight options currently exist in Sri Lanka. U.S. citizens who wish to return to the United States should make commercial arrangements as soon as possible unless they are prepared ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 3 April, 2020 | Topics: Alert, News
Location: Sri Lanka Event: COVID-19 in Sri Lanka. These updates are being sent daily for the benefit of new registrants in STEP. New information is listed in the top bullets. Recent Updates: ï The embassy strongly urges those who wish to return to the United States to explore commercial flight options now, as there is no guarantee that the U.S. government will ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 2 April, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Location: Sri Lanka Event: COVID-19 in Sri Lanka. Updates are being sent daily for the benefit of new registrants in STEP. New information is listed in the top bullets. Recent Updates: As previously indicated, the embassy strongly urges those who wish to return to the United States to explore commercial flight options now, as there is no guarantee that the U.S. ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 1 April, 2020 | Topics: Alert, News
Location: Sri Lanka Event: COVID-19 in Sri Lanka Recent Updates: These updates are being sent daily for the benefit of new registrants in STEP. New information is listed in the top bullets: The Sri Lanka Ministry of Health confirmed 122 cases of COVID-19 in Sri Lanka The following airlines are still providing very limited commercial flights departing Sri Lanka: Sri Lankan Airlines ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 31 March, 2020 | Topics: Alert, News
By
Dave Reynolds Mar 10, 2020 The United States has pledged to spend up to $100 million in existing funds to combat the coronavirus disease COVID-19 overseas, demonstrating continued U.S. leadership in the global fight against infectious diseases. “This commitment — along with the hundreds of millions generously donated by the American private sector — demonstrates strong ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 31 March, 2020 | Topics: News
Location: Sri Lanka Event: The Sri Lanka Ministry of Health confirmed 120 cases of COVID-19 in Sri Lanka Recent Updates: These updates are being sent daily for the benefit of new registrants in STEP. New information is listed the top bullets: If an American Citizen is determined to have COVID-19, he or she is likely ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 30 March, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Location: Sri Lanka Event: The Sri Lanka Ministry of Health confirmed 115 cases of COVID-19 in Sri Lanka On March 19, 2020, the Department of State issued a global Level 4 Health Advisory (Do Not Travel) advising U.S. citizens to avoid all international travel due to the global impact of COVID-19. In countries where commercial departure ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 29 March, 2020 | Topics: Alert, Exclude, News
FACT SHEET OFFICE OF THE SPOKESPERSON MARCH 27, 2020 The U.S. Government is leading the world’s humanitarian and health assistance response to the COVID-19 pandemic. We are mobilizing all necessary resources to respond rapidly, both at home and abroad. As part of this comprehensive and generous U.S. response, the State Department and USAID are providing ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 28 March, 2020 | Topics: News
March 28, 2020 Location: Sri Lanka Event: The Sri Lanka Ministry of Health confirmed 106 cases of COVID-19 in Sri Lanka On March 19, 2020, the Department of State issued a global Level 4 Health Advisory (Do Not Travel) advising U.S. citizens to avoid all international travel due to the global impact of COVID-19. In countries ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 28 March, 2020 | Topics: Alert, Messages for U.S. Citizens
By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 24 March, 2020 | Topics: Alert, Exclude All
Location: Sri Lanka Event: The government of Sri Lanka has confirmed 75 cases of COVID-19. On March 19, 2020, the Department of State issued a global Level 4 Health Advisory (Do Not Travel) advising U.S. citizens to avoid all international travel due to the global impact of COVID-19. In countries where commercial departure options remain available, U.S. citizens who live ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 21 March, 2020 | Topics: Alert
March 20, 2020 Location: Sri Lanka. Event: The Sri Lankan government has declared an island-wide curfew beginning at 6:00 p.m. on March 20 until 06:00 a.m. on Monday, March 23, 2020. Travel to the airport for ticketed passengers is exempted from the curfew. Additional curfews and checkpoints are possible with little notice in the immediate future. Actions ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 20 March, 2020 | Topics: Alert, Messages for U.S. Citizens, Security & Emergency Messages
Location: Sri Lanka Event: The Sri Lanka Ministry of Health confirmed 53 cases of COVID-19 in Sri Lanka. On March 14, the Department of State authorized the departure from any diplomatic or consular post in the world of U.S. personnel and family members who have been medically determined to be at higher risk of a ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 19 March, 2020 | Topics: Alert
March 18, 2020 Location: Puttalam and Negombo, Sri Lanka. Event: The Sri Lankan government has declared local curfews beginning at 4:30 p.m. on March 18, 2020 in Puttalam, Kochchikade, Negombo, and Chilaw. Additional curfews and checkpoints are possible with little notice in the immediate future. Actions to Take: – Follow the instructions of local authorities. – Monitor ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 18 March, 2020 | Topics: Alert, Messages for U.S. Citizens, Security & Emergency Messages
Location: Sri Lanka Event: There is an ongoing outbreak of Coronavirus (COVID-19) first identified in Wuhan, China. As of March 17, there are 43 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Sri Lanka. The Department of State has issued a
Global Level 3 Health Advisory for COVID-19.. On March 17, 2020 the government of Sri Lanka announced that all international airports in Sri ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 18 March, 2020 | Topics: Alert
COLOMBO, March 17, 2020: U.S. Ambassador to Sri Lanka Alaina B. Teplitz presented a donation of Dupont Tyvek coveralls, nitrile gloves, heavy duty work gloves, boot covers, and cleaning supplies to Major General (Rtd) GA Chandrasiri, Chairman of the Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka, at Bandaranaike International Airport on behalf of the American people. ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 17 March, 2020 | Topics: News, Press Releases
February 17, 2020 District Governor Senake Amerasinghe Rotary World President Mark Daniel Maloney Ladies and Gentlemen, Thank you Senake for organizing this special event tonight and thank you Mark for joining all the way from Alabama. It’s a pleasure to be with you tonight to celebrate the long, productive presence Rotary has had in Sri ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 21 February, 2020 | Topics: Ambassador, News, Speeches
DONDRA, February 7, 2020: The “Career Bus” funded by the United States embarked today on its maiden voyage. Traveling throughout Sri Lanka, it will bring professional employment advising services to rural youth with limited access to career guidance professionals. Developed in partnership with the Vocational Training Authority (VTA) and the private sector, the bus started ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 7 February, 2020 | Topics: Exclude, News, Press Releases
PRESS STATEMENT MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE FEBRUARY 3, 2020 On behalf of the people of the United States, I send my best wishes to Sri Lanka as you celebrate the 72nd anniversary of your independence on February 4. Our relationship is based on common democratic values, and the United States steadfastly supports Sri Lanka’s ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 4 February, 2020 | Topics: News, Press Releases
KANDY, January 31, 2020: Twenty graduates of the U.S. Embassy’s Rural Women Entrepreneurship program held a trade fair at the American Corner Kandy to showcase their products on January 30. The women participated in a six-month course called “Zero Money: How to Start a Business.” The program taught them the skills needed to launch and ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 31 January, 2020 | Topics: Exclude, News, Press Releases
Location: Colombo, Sri Lanka Event: The Arrival and Departure lobbies at Bandaranaike International Airport are closed to all visitors until further notice. Only traveling passengers will be allowed inside the terminal building. For more information and further updates on this closure please visit the airport website at
https://www.airport.lk/ Actions to Take: Be aware of your ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 31 January, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Location: Colombo 03, Colombo 07, Sri Lanka Event: The U.S. Embassy informs U.S. citizens that the following areas in Colombo will be affected with multiple road closures and delays from January 31 through February 04 due to the National Day parade to be held in Independence square on February 04, 2020 and related activities. Vehicular movement ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 30 January, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Media Note January 9, 2020 Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs Alice Wells will travel to Sri Lanka, India, and Pakistan, from January 13-22. From January 13-14, she will be in Colombo, Sri Lanka, to meet with senior government officials and members of civil society to discuss a range ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 10 January, 2020 | Topics: News
January 8, 2020 Location: Sri Lanka and Maldives. Event: Heightened Middle East Tensions. There is heightened tension in the Middle East that may result in security risks to U.S. citizens abroad. The Embassy will continue to review the security situation and will provide additional information as needed. Actions to Take: Keep a low profile. Be ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 8 January, 2020 | Topics: Alert, Messages for U.S. Citizens, Security & Emergency Messages
December 23, 2019 Location: U.S. Embassy, American Center in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Event: The U.S. Embassy advises U.S. citizens that Tuesday, December 24, 2019, is declared a federal holiday, in addition to Wednesday, December 25, 2019. Accordingly, the U.S. Embassy and the American Center in Colombo will be closed to the public on December 24, 2019 and will re-open at ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 23 December, 2019 | Topics: Alert
December 11, 2019 I want to than Equal Ground for inviting me to speak tonight to mark on International Human Rights Day, and of course it’s the last day of 16 days of Activism Against Gender Based Violence. As Rosanna told us, the struggle to universally enshrine and protect human rights is not a new ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 20 December, 2019 | Topics: Ambassador, News, Speeches
Location: Nationwide, Sri Lanka. Event: In acknowledgment of upcoming holidays, the U.S. Embassy reminds American citizens of the current Level 2 Travel Advisory (Exercise Increased Caution). Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets, shopping malls, government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 17 December, 2019 | Topics: Alert, Messages for U.S. Citizens, Security & Emergency Messages
COLOMBO, December 16, 2019: On December 7 and 8, the U.S. Embassy hosted 40 teachers from across Sri Lanka for a two-day Access Teacher Training in Colombo. A U.S. embassy-funded micro-scholarship program, Access teaches students English and leadership skills for two years. English Language specialists from the United States conducted the training, which included lessons ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 16 December, 2019 | Topics: News, Press Releases
COLOMBO, December 12, 2019: On December 5, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) launched its “Clean Cities, Blue Ocean” (CCBO) program in Sri Lanka and Maldives, the most recent countries to join this flagship initiative to mitigate ocean plastic. CCBO is a $48 million, five-year global initiative that helps countries improve solid waste ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 12 December, 2019 | Topics: News, Press Releases
COLOMBO, December 10, 2019: More than forty young Sri Lankan leaders traveled to Colombo from across the country to take part in U.S. Embassy-sponsored workshops on leadership and public service during the week of November 25. The participants were all members of the U.S. Embassy’s Youth Forum program, which is conducted by the American Corners ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 10 December, 2019 | Topics: News, Press Releases
December 3, 2019 Good morning distinguished guests, conference organizers. It’s a pleasure to be here, and I want to thank the Colombo School of Business and Management and the Women’s International Foundation for inviting me to speak at this important and I think very timely event. Shortly after the recent presidential election here in Sri ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 5 December, 2019 | Topics: Ambassador, Exclude, News, Speeches
COLOMBO, December 3, 2019: The United States donated landslide monitoring instruments to Sri Lanka’s National Building Research Organization (NBRO) to more effectively manage the risk of landslides in Nikgaha, Kalutara. As part of the initiative, engineers and geologists from the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) visited Sri Lanka from November 5 to 15 to partner with ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 3 December, 2019 | Topics: News, Press Releases
COLOMBO, November 18, 2019: The United States congratulates the people of Sri Lanka on their democratic presidential election and looks forward to working with President Gotabaya Rajapaksa. Sri Lanka has continued to show the strength and resilience of its republic with a free, fair, and transparent presidential election befitting Asia’s oldest democracy. We commend the ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 19 November, 2019 | Topics: News, Press Releases
November 18, 2019 The United States congratulates the people of Sri Lanka on their democratic election and stands ready to work with Gotabaya Rajapaksa as the new President of Sri Lanka. We call on President Rajapaksa to uphold Sri Lanka’s commitments to security sector reform, accountability, respect for human rights, and non-recurrence of violence. Sri ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 19 November, 2019 | Topics: News, U.S. Secretary of State
COLOMBO, November 18, 2019: The United States congratulates the people of Sri Lanka on their democratic presidential election and looks forward to working with President Gotabaya Rajapaksa. Sri Lanka has continued to show the strength and resilience of its republic with a free, fair, and transparent presidential election befitting Asia’s oldest democracy. We commend the Elections Commission, ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 18 November, 2019 | Topics: News, Press Releases
November 14, 2019 Location: Nationwide, Sri Lanka. Event: The U.S. Embassy reminds American citizens of the potential for demonstrations before, during, and after the November 16, 2019, presidential election. There is no change to the current Level 2 Travel Advisory (“Exercise Increased Caution”). Actions to Take: – Exercise caution if unexpectedly in the vicinity of large ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 14 November, 2019 | Topics: Alert, Messages for U.S. Citizens, Security & Emergency Messages
By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 7 November, 2019 | Topics: Fact Sheets, News
November 6, 2019: The United States welcomes the decision of the Cabinet of Ministers to approve the $480 million Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) development assistance grant. Sri Lanka requested this support, which is expected to benefit at least 11 million Sri Lankans through the funding of government- and private sector- identified needs. The programs ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 6 November, 2019 | Topics: News, Press Releases
By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 5 November, 2019 | Topics: News
Location: Presidential Secretariat, Colombo 01, Sri Lanka. Event: There currently is a student protest near the Presidential Secretariat. Police are responding and have reportedly used tear gas. Portions of Lotus Road are closed. The Embassy reminds citizens that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence. Actions to Take: Avoid ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 24 October, 2019 | Topics: Alert, Messages for U.S. Citizens, Security & Emergency Messages
October 22, 2019: Maker Fair 2019 drew more than 7,000 people to Colombo’s Trace Expert City and showcased aspiring inventors, innovators, and entrepreneurs from across Sri Lanka,. The event, hosted by the U.S. Embassy and the American Center, featured more than 60 exhibitors and presenters, 50 corporate and 11 university partners, and more than ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 22 October, 2019 | Topics: Exclude, News, Press Releases
The U.S. Embassy will bring together young inventors and innovators from across Sri Lanka at its second Maker Fair on October 20 at Trace Expert City. This engineering-centered exhibition is free of charge and open to visitors of all ages. It will include innovation workshops for youth and panel discussions led by leading tech experts ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 17 October, 2019 | Topics: News, Press Releases
Location: U.S. Embassy and the vicinity of Galle Face Green, Colombo 01, Sri Lanka. Event: The U.S. Embassy will close to the public at 11:00 a.m. on October 10, 2019 due to a large political rally scheduled to be held on Galle Face Green later that day. The Consular section will contact individuals with afternoon visa appointments ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 8 October, 2019 | Topics: Alert
The U.S. Government is helping make Arugam Bay a sustainable, green tourist destination. Through an initiative called “Waste Less Arugam Bay,” sponsored by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), the project provides free drinking water at refill stations, recycles plastic bottles, and promotes the benefits of reducing plastic waste. In Arugam Bay alone, since ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 26 September, 2019 | Topics: News, Press Releases
September 16, Anuradhapura: U.S. Ambassador to Sri Lanka Alaina B. Teplitz officially opened the Anuradhapura Department of Archeology Museum on September 12, marking the completion of a decade-long, U.S.-funded museum renovation project, which includes upgraded preservation techniques and equipment for its collection. The collection consists of archeologically significant rare objects, including gilded statues, bronze statues, ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 16 September, 2019 | Topics: Ambassador, News, Press Releases
Ambassador Teplitz: Good morning. As you can see from my career history, managing for results, strategic planning, managing in general, is what I have been doing for the last 30 years. Honorable Ministers, colleagues, distinguished guests, Secretary, it’s a pleasure to be here and to have a chance to help you open this seminar. We ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 13 September, 2019 | Topics: News
Location: US Embassy, Colombo 03, Sri Lanka. Event: The U.S. Embassy informs U.S. citizens of a protest of an estimated 20 people to be held in front of the U.S. Embassy today at 10:30 a.m. The protest should not impact embassy operations. Actions to Take: The Embassy reminds citizens that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 3 September, 2019 | Topics: Alert, Messages for U.S. Citizens, Security & Emergency Messages
August 22, 2019 Good morning, everyone. Ayubowan. Vanakkam. Asalam Alaikum. It’s good to see everybody in the audience today and I want to especially thank the very distinguished group of speakers who came before me for their words of inspiration and I think explanation about why everyone is here today. And of course with the ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 27 August, 2019 | Topics: Ambassador, News, Speeches
[As delivered] August 15, 2019 Ambassador Teplitz: — This gathering represents a very diverse array of economic sectors. I really think this is the future of the Sri Lankan economy that we’re looking at here. I want to thank Acting President, Presantha Jayamaha, and I want to thank Nuzreth Jaladeen in particular, for inviting me ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 20 August, 2019 | Topics: Ambassador, News, Speeches
The Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) is an innovative and independent U.S. foreign assistance agency that is helping lead the fight against global poverty. Created by the U.S. Congress in 2004 with strong bipartisan support, MCC has changed the conversation on how best to deliver smart U.S. foreign assistance by focusing on good policies, country ownership ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 18 August, 2019 | Topics: News
Location: Nationwide, Sri Lanka. Event: In acknowledgment of upcoming holidays, the U.S. Embassy reminds American citizens of the current Level 2 Travel Advisory (Exercise Increased Caution). Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets, shopping malls, government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 2 August, 2019 | Topics: Alert, Exclude, Messages for U.S. Citizens, Security & Emergency Messages
[As delivered] June 30, 2019 Good evening. It’s a pleasure to see everybody here. I’m very pleased to join you at the third annual general meeting. And thank you very much to Asanka and Samantha for inviting me to speak with you tonight. I think it’s a great opportunity to address some of the business ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 31 July, 2019 | Topics: Ambassador, News, Speeches
The Government of Sri Lanka and MCC together identified weak transport infrastructure and weak land administration practices as two binding constraints to economic growth in Sri Lanka. To address these constraints, the proposed compact consists of two projects: a
transportation project and a
land project . The total budget for the compact is $480 million. The $350 million transport ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 29 July, 2019 | Topics: News
Date: July 23, 2019 Location: Fort, Colombo 01, Sri Lanka. Event: The U.S. Embassy informs U.S. citizens of a protest of an estimated 400 people to be held in front of Fort railway station beginning at approximately 3:30pm. Actions to Take: The Embassy reminds citizens that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 23 July, 2019 | Topics: Alert, Messages for U.S. Citizens, Security & Emergency Messages
Location: Kannaggara Mawatha – Lipton Circus – Ward Place, Colombo 07. Event: The U.S. Embassy informs U.S. citizens of an ongoing demonstration carried out by approximately 500 students from the Inter-University Students Federation (IUSF) in Colombo. Students are expected to gather at Nelum Pokuna Auditorium, Colombo 7, and march to the University Grants Commission (UGC) ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 17 July, 2019 | Topics: Alert, Exclude, Messages for U.S. Citizens, Security & Emergency Messages
Location: Galle Road, Colombo 03. Event: The U.S. Embassy informs U.S. citizens of a demonstration; approximately 1000-1500 students from the Inter-University Students Federation (IUSF) are scheduled to have a demonstration in Colombo today. Protesters are expected to travel along Duplication Road and may travel as far north as Temple Trees. The current route is unknown ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 9 July, 2019 | Topics: Alert, Exclude, Messages for U.S. Citizens, Security & Emergency Messages
July 2, 2019 Hilton Hotel, Colombo Thank you all so much for joining us tonight. It is my absolute honor to welcome you to the 243rd Independence Day celebration of the United States of America. Our theme tonight is “Share America.” We want to share with you what it means to each of us, my ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 8 July, 2019 | Topics: Ambassador, News, Speeches
June 25, 2019 Good afternoon, I’m happy to provide some food for thought as we talk about this topic. As Nuzreth said, I’m interested in this topic and she told me when we first met, oh by the way, we’re doing this series and I leapt on the opportunity. So thank you for indulging me ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 28 June, 2019 | Topics: Exclude, News, Speeches
Location: 210, Galle Road, Colombo 03. Event: The U.S. Embassy informs U.S. citizens of a protest organized by the Socialist Students Union to be held in front of the Embassy today at approximately 1:00 p.m. The demonstration is expected to last approximately one hour and to be comprised of 100 protestors. Actions to Take: – ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 27 June, 2019 | Topics: Alert, Exclude, Messages for U.S. Citizens, Security & Emergency Messages
06/21/2019 Colombo, Sri Lanka – The 13th U.S.-Sri Lanka Trade and Investment Framework (TIFA) Joint Council Meeting was held on June 19 & 20, 2019 in Colombo, Sri Lanka. The meeting was inaugurated by Hon. Malik Samarawickrama, Minister of Development Strategies & International Trade, and Assistant United States Trade Representative (AUSTR), Mr. Christopher Wilson. At the outset, ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 24 June, 2019 | Topics: News
Colombo, June 19: Due to unavoidable scheduling conflicts during his upcoming visit to the Indo-Pacific region that includes accompanying President Donald J. Trump to the G20 Summit in Japan, U.S. Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo is unable to visit Sri Lanka as previously announced. Secretary Pompeo regrets that he is no longer able to ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 19 June, 2019 | Topics: News, Press Releases
June 10, 2019 Good evening. It’s a pleasure to be here with you, to join you tonight to celebrate Equal Ground’s 2019 Pride gathering and to see so many of you here in support of equality and inclusion for the LGBTIQ community. I want to extend special congratulations to those receiving the Equality Warrior Awards ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 12 June, 2019 | Topics: Ambassador, News, Speeches
Colombo, June 6: The U.S. Department of State’s Assistant Secretary for Political-Military Affairs R. Clarke Cooper visited Sri Lanka from June 2 through 5 to discuss security cooperation and assess the progress of U.S.-funded demining programs. Assistant Secretary Cooper traveled to the Eastern Province to observe demining operations and meet with project beneficiaries. The projects ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 6 June, 2019 | Topics: Exclude, News, Press Releases
MEDIA NOTE OFFICE OF THE SPOKESPERSON MAY 29, 2019 WASHINGTON, DC Assistant Secretary of State for Political-Military Affairs R. Clarke Cooper travels to Singapore, India, and Sri Lanka May 29-June 7, 2019. In Singapore, Assistant Secretary Cooper will join Under Secretary of State for Arms Control and International Security Andrea L. Thompson on a delegation ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 31 May, 2019 | Topics: News, Press Releases
OFFICE OF THE SPOKESPERSON / MAY 17, 2019 WASHINGTON, DC The following statement was released by the Governments of the United States of America and Sri Lanka on the occasion of the third U.S.-Sri Lanka Partnership Dialogue held on May 16, 2019 in Washington, DC. Begin Text: Sharing a commitment to democracy, human rights, and the rule ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 18 May, 2019 | Topics: News, Press Releases
May 16, 2019 Vesak Day On behalf of the people of the United States of America, I send wishes of peace and joy to everyone celebrating Vesak Day on May 18. As Buddhist communities unite across the globe to celebrate the founder of Buddhism, Siddhartha Gautama, we honor the values of compassion, charity, and peace. ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 17 May, 2019 | Topics: News, Press Releases
OFFICE OF THE SPOKESPERSON / MAY 16, 2019 WASHINGTON, DC The below is attributable to Spokesperson Morgan Ortagus: Secretary Michael R. Pompeo met with Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Tilak Marapana today. The Secretary reiterated the United States’ condemnation of the attacks that Sri Lanka suffered last month, which also killed five Americans, and strong U.S. ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 17 May, 2019 | Topics: News, Press Releases
May 16, 2019 Location: Nationwide, Sri Lanka. Event: The Sri Lankan government has declared local and island-wide curfews recently due to communal unrest in the northwest region of the country. Additional curfews and checkpoints are possible with little notice over the coming holiday weekend. The U.S. Embassy reminds American citizens of the current Level 3 ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 16 May, 2019 | Topics: Alert, Messages for U.S. Citizens, Security & Emergency Messages
May 16, Colombo: A high endurance cutter, a gift from the U.S. Coast Guard, arrived in Colombo on Sunday, May 12 after a 42-day voyage from Hawaii. The ship was officially transferred to the Sri Lanka Navy in a ceremony held in Honolulu, Hawaii on August 27, 2018. After the ceremony, the vessel underwent refit ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 16 May, 2019 | Topics: Exclude, News, Press Releases
May 5, 2019 I send my warmest greetings to all Muslims observing the holy month of Ramadan. Ramadan commemorates when the sacred Quran was revealed to Muhammad. At the spotting of the crescent moon, Muslim families and communities will honor this revelation by beginning a month of inward reflection, spiritual renewal, and prayer. During Ramadan, ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 8 May, 2019 | Topics: News, President of the United States, Press Releases
May 5, 2019 On behalf of the U.S. Department of State, I extend best wishes to Muslim communities at home and abroad for a blessed Ramadan. For many Muslims, this month is an occasion to focus on spiritual rejuvenation, kindness and resilience, compassion for those less fortunate, and harmony across diverse communities. In the United ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 8 May, 2019 | Topics: News, Press Releases
Embassy of the United States of America Colombo PRESS RELEASE Public Affairs Section Tel: +94 (1) 249-8100 Fax: +94 (1) 244-9070 Email:
VanHornNT@state.gov ●
https://lk.usembassy.gov The United States Government continues to assist Sri Lankan authorities in the aftermath of the horrific attacks that occurred in the country on Easter Sunday. At the request of the Sri Lankan ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 27 April, 2019 | Topics: Alert, News | Tags: Terrorist Attacks in Sri Lanka
Embassy of the United States of America Colombo PRESS RELEASE Public Affairs Section Tel: +94 (1) 249-8100 Fax: +94 (1) 244-9070 Email:
VanHornNT@state.gov ●
https://lk.usembassy.gov Release No. 20190427 United States Provides Support to Sri Lanka in Wake of Attacks April 27, Colombo: Following the tragic Easter Sunday attacks, President Trump immediately extended an offer of comprehensive support to Sri ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 27 April, 2019 | Topics: Press Releases | Tags: Terrorist Attacks in Sri Lanka
Reconsider travel to Sri Lanka due to terrorism. On April 26, 2019, the Department of State ordered the departure of all school-age family members of U.S. government employees in Kindergarten through 12th grade. The Department also authorized the voluntary departure of non-emergency U.S. government employees and family members. Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Sri ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 27 April, 2019 | Topics: Alert | Tags: Terrorist Attacks in Sri Lanka
Location: Sri Lanka Event: Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Sri Lanka. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets, shopping malls, government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, hospitals, and other public areas. Actions to Take: Be aware ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 25 April, 2019 | Topics: Alert | Tags: Terrorist Attacks in Sri Lanka
Location: Sri Lanka Event: Sri Lankan authorities are reporting that additional attacks targeting places of worship may occur. U.S. citizens are encouraged to avoid these areas over the weekend, starting tomorrow, April 26th through Sunday, April 28th. Continue to remain vigilant and avoid large crowds. Actions to Take: Be aware of your surroundings. Stay alert in locations ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 25 April, 2019 | Topics: Alert | Tags: Terrorist Attacks in Sri Lanka
Location: Sri Lanka Event: Sri Lankan authorities are reporting that additional attacks may occur targeting places of worship. Avoid these areas over the weekend, starting tomorrow, April 26th through Sunday, April 28th. Continue to remain vigilant and avoid large crowds. Actions to Take: Be aware of your surroundings. Stay alert in locations frequented by tourists. Review your ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 25 April, 2019 | Topics: Alert | Tags: Terrorist Attacks in Sri Lanka
Embassy of the United States of America Colombo Press Release Public Affairs Section Tel: +94 (1) 249-8100 Fax: +94 (1) 244-9070 Email:
VanHornNT@state.gov Release No. 20190425 April 25, Colombo: U.S. Ambassador to Sri Lanka Alaina B. Teplitz called for unity in the wake of the Easter Sunday terrorist attacks that killed at least 359 innocent people, ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 25 April, 2019 | Topics: Press Releases | Tags: Terrorist Attacks in Sri Lanka
Location: Colombo Event: Following the bombings on Sunday, April 21, Sri Lankan authorities continue to pursue leads related to the attacks. Be prepared for possible checkpoints, road closures, and ongoing searches of people, vehicles, and other items of interest. Actions to Take: Be aware of your surroundings when traveling to tourist locations and crowded public ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 25 April, 2019 | Topics: Alert | Tags: Terrorist Attacks in Sri Lanka
April 21, 2019 WASHINGTON – Acting Secretary of Homeland Security Kevin K. McAleenan released the following statement in response to the reported terror attacks in Sri Lanka: “On behalf of the men and women of DHS, I want to express condolences and sympathies for those affected by the Easter Sunday attack on multiple hotels and places ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 22 April, 2019 | Topics: News, Press Releases | Tags: Terrorist Attacks in Sri Lanka
April 21, 2019 Washington D.C. – House Foreign Affairs Lead Republican Michael McCaul (R-TX) released the following statement regarding the terrorist attacks this morning in Sri Lanka. Lead Republican McCaul: “I am horrified by the terrorist attacks that took place in Sri Lanka this morning leading to over 200 deaths and hundreds of casualties on ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 22 April, 2019 | Topics: News, Press Releases | Tags: Terrorist Attacks in Sri Lanka
Travel Advisory April 21, 2019 Sri Lanka – Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution Exercise increased caution in Sri Lanka due to terrorism. Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Sri Lanka. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 22 April, 2019 | Topics: Alert | Tags: Terrorist Attacks in Sri Lanka
The White House Office of the Press Secretary FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 21, 2019 The United States condemns in the strongest terms the outrageous terrorist attacks in Sri Lanka that have claimed so many precious lives on this Easter Sunday. Our heartfelt condolences go out to the families of the more than 200 killed and ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 22 April, 2019 | Topics: Press Releases | Tags: Terrorist Attacks in Sri Lanka
Press Statement Michael R. Pompeo Secretary of State Washington, DC April 21, 2019 The United States condemns in the strongest terms the terror attacks in Sri Lanka on Easter morning. Attacks on innocent people gathering in a place of worship or enjoying a holiday meal are affronts to the universal values and freedoms that we ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 22 April, 2019 | Topics: Press Releases, U.S. Secretary of State | Tags: Michael R. Pompeo, Terrorist Attacks in Sri Lanka
Statement from the White House Press Secretary The White House Office of the Press Secretary FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 21, 2019 The United States condemns in the strongest terms the outrageous terrorist attacks in Sri Lanka that have claimed so many precious lives on this Easter Sunday. Our heartfelt condolences go out to the families of the more than 200 killed and ...
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 21 April, 2019 | Topics: News, Press Releases | Tags: Terrorist Attacks in Sri Lanka
Locations: Colombo, Kochchikade, Katuwapitiya and Batticaloa Event: Media report multiple explosions throughout Sri Lanka. Affected areas include the Shangri La, Cinnamon Grand and Kingsbury hotels in Colombo and churches in Kochchikade, Katuwapitiya and Batticaloa. Actions to Take: · Avoid public areas, especially hotels and places of worship. · Monitor local media for updates. · Be aware of your surroundings. U.S. ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 21 April, 2019 | Topics: Alert | Tags: Terrorist Attacks in Sri Lanka
Governor Hizbullah, Member of Parliament A.L.M. Nazeer, teachers, staff and students, good afternoon and as-salamu alaykum. I’m delighted to be here this morning to formally open this beautiful addition to the Kariapper school, and most importantly, to meet with some of the engaging young people who are studying here. And let me thank the students ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 18 April, 2019 | Topics: Ambassador, News, Speeches
Governor Hizbullah, Member of Parliament A.L.M. Nazeer, teachers, staff and students, good afternoon and as-salamu alaykum. I’m delighted to be here this morning to formally open this beautiful addition to the An Noor school, and most importantly, to meet with some of the engaging young people who are studying here. And let me thank the ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 18 April, 2019 | Topics: Ambassador, News, Speeches
April 18, Addalaichenai and Kalmunai: U.S. Ambassador to Sri Lanka Alaina B. Teplitz today inaugurated two renovated schools in the Eastern Province that will be able to serve approximately 1300 students thanks to the renovation, an increase of more than 850. The U.S-funded renovations of the An-Noor and Kariapper schools, coordinated by the U.S. Indo-Pacific ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 18 April, 2019 | Topics: News, Press Releases
April 1, Colombo: U.S. experts joined four Sri Lankan film professionals in a panel discussion about how effective film distribution benefits Sri Lanka’s movie industry, artists, and audiences on March 30 at Hatch, a workplace for entrepreneurs. Speaking at the event, U.S. Ambassador Alaina B. Teplitz said. “One of our core beliefs is freedom of ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 17 April, 2019 | Topics: Press Releases
Press Statement Morgan Ortagus Department Spokesperson Washington, DC April 12, 2019 On behalf of the American people and the Government of the United States of America, I wish a joyous New Year to all Sri Lankan people. The United States and Sri Lanka have a strong partnership based on extensive people-to-people ties and a shared ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 13 April, 2019 | Topics: News, Press Releases
April 3, Colombo: Manohari Abeyesekera, Head of Strategic Business Development at Hayleys PLC, joined women leaders from 15 countries in the United States this week for the
Fortune–U.S. Department of State Global Women’s Mentoring Partnership . Ms. Abeyesekera and 18 other participants will spend a month working with executives from the Fortune Most Powerful Women community to enhance their business and leadership skills. “When ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 3 April, 2019 | Topics: News, Press Releases
March 18, 2019 Good afternoon, and thank you to Country Representative Dinesha Wickramanayake and to the Asia Foundation for inviting me to speak with you today about trafficking in persons on behalf of U.S. Ambassador to Sri Lanka and Maldives Alaina Teplitz. It’s my pleasure to also welcome you all to this event and thank ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 27 March, 2019 | Topics: News, Speeches
Location: Albert Crescent, Presidential Secretariat, Kolpetty Junction, and/or the University Grants Commission, Colombo, Sri Lanka. Event: The U.S. Embassy informs U.S. citizens of a scheduled demonstration of approximately 1,500 students on March 13, 2019. The protesters will gather near the University of the Visual and Performing Arts grounds on Albert Crescent at 2 p.m and are ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 13 March, 2019 | Topics: Alert, Exclude, Messages for U.S. Citizens, Security & Emergency Messages
Media Note Office of the Spokesperson Washington, DC March 5, 2019 On Thursday, March 7, Secretary of State Pompeo will host the Annual International Women of Courage (IWOC) Awards at the U.S. Department of State to honor 10 extraordinary women from around the world. First Lady of the United States Melania Trump will deliver special ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 6 March, 2019 | Topics: News, Press Releases
As delivered It is a pleasure to see a very full room here today, and I want to thank Minister Samaraweera for his kind remarks. Thank you for joining us Chamber President, members of the board, friends, and partners. It’s really a pleasure to help launch the American Corner today. As the Minister highlighted, this ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 1 March, 2019 | Topics: Ambassador, Exclude, News, Speeches
February 27, Matara: U.S. Ambassador to Sri Lanka Alaina B. Teplitz and Minister of Finance Mangala Samaraweera launched a new American Corner in Matara on February 26 at the Matara Chamber of Commerce and Industry at 149 Hakmana Road. The American Corner Matara promotes entrepreneurship and provides Sri Lanka’s brightest young minds the space and resources ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 27 February, 2019 | Topics: Ambassador, Exclude, News, Press Releases
February 15, Colombo: From February 11 through 13, the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) conducted port security capacity building at the Port of Colombo with more than 25 Sri Lankan port officials. The event strengthened the port’s security capabilities through drills that improved agency coordination and the implementation of the port’s security plan. Sri Lanka’s improved ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 15 February, 2019 | Topics: Exclude, News, Press Releases
Colombo, Sri Lanka February 14, 2019 REMARKS AS DELIVERED Thank you very much. It’s a great pleasure to be here and it’s really a great honor to be at this table with two luminaries. It’s a great pleasure to be next to the Ambassador who has a very extraordinary and distinguished career including service as ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 15 February, 2019 | Topics: News, Speeches
February 14, Batticaloa and Trincomalee: Building educational opportunities for the children of the Eastern Province, the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command (INDOPACOM) renovated two schools in Nintavur and Soodaikkudah. Anthony Renzulli, the U.S. Embassy’s Head of Political Affairs, presided over the official ribbon cutting ceremony in Nintavur on February 12 while Public Affairs Officer David McGuire inaugurated the school ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 14 February, 2019 | Topics: Exclude, News, Press Releases
Location: U.S. Embassy, Colombo 02, Sri Lanka. Event: The U.S. Embassy informs U.S. citizens of an expected demonstration of up to 150 participants on February 8 at approximately 10:00 a.m. in the vicinity of the U.S. Embassy, 210 Galle Road, Colombo 02. Actions to Take: The Embassy reminds citizens that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 8 February, 2019 | Topics: Alert, Exclude, Messages for U.S. Citizens, Security & Emergency Messages
Press Statement Michael R. Pompeo Secretary of State Washington, DC February 3, 2019 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 ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 4 February, 2019 | Topics: News, Press Releases, U.S. & Sri Lanka
January 28, 2019 Ayubowan. Vanakkam. Asalam alaikum. Good morning. It is a pleasure to join you here. I appreciate being invited to offer a word of encouragement and support at the National Inter Religious Symposium. In the United States, as Dr. Perera said, we celebrate our differences in our communities. We have many different ethnic ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 31 January, 2019 | Topics: Ambassador, Exclude, News, Speeches
Location: Colombo 01, 02, 03, Sri Lanka. Event: The U.S. Embassy informs U.S. citizens that the following areas in Colombo will be affected with multiple road closures and delays from January 31 through February 04 due to the National Day parade and related activities. Thursday through Sunday, January 31 through February 4 Closed 7am to 12noon: ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 30 January, 2019 | Topics: Alert, Exclude, Messages for U.S. Citizens, Security & Emergency Messages
January 23, Colombo: From January 21 to 29, the U.S. Navy will perform a transfer operation to move cargo between planes at Bandaranaike International Airport outside Colombo. This is part of a larger temporary cargo transfer initiative that promotes Sri Lanka’s efforts to become a regional hub for logistics and commerce. The January transfers will ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 28 January, 2019 | Topics: Exclude, News, Press Releases
Location: U.S. Embassy, Colombo, Sri Lanka. Event: The U.S. Embassy in Colombo advises U.S. citizens that during the current U.S. government lapse in appropriations, scheduled passport and visa services and American citizen services at the U.S. Embassy will continue as the situation permits. Please check our social media accounts, our website, and travel.state.gov for any ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 22 December, 2018 | Topics: Alert
Christmas Eve; Federal Government Closure on Monday, December 24, 2018 U.S. Embassy Colombo, Sri Lanka (December 21, 2018) Location: U.S. Embassy, Colombo, Sri Lanka. Event: The U.S. Embassy advises U.S. citizens that December 24th, 2018, is declared a holiday for federal employees. Accordingly, the U.S. Embassy and the American Center in Colombo will be closed to the public on December ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 21 December, 2018 | Topics: Alert
December 10, 2018 Question: When you found out that you had been appointed as the US Ambassador to Sri Lanka, what were your initial thoughts? It is an honour to be nominated as an Ambassador to any country, but I was especially happy because I have spent many years of my career in South Asia ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 18 December, 2018 | Topics: Ambassador, Exclude, News, Speeches
Location: Colombo 03, Maradana, Town hall, Sri Lanka Event: The U.S. Embassy informs U.S. citizens of a political rally that will be held today at Galle Face Green. Approximately 50,000 people are expected to attend the event. Crowds may begin gathering as early as 11am. The rally is expected to begin at 1pm. Rally participants are ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 17 December, 2018 | Topics: Alert, Messages for U.S. Citizens, Security & Emergency Messages
Location: U.S. Embassy, Colombo, Sri Lanka. Event: The U.S. Embassy advises U.S. citizens that Wednesday, December 5, 2018, is declared a National day of Mourning for President George H. W. Bush. Accordingly, the U.S. Embassy and the American Center in Colombo will be closed to the public from 07:00 a.m. on December 5, 2018 and will re-open at ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 4 December, 2018 | Topics: Alert, Messages for U.S. Citizens, Security & Emergency Messages
November 29, 2018 Thank you for the kind introduction. I’m very delighted to be here. I think as I’ve said to several of you as I walked in, the first four weeks of my time in Colombo have been consumed by events that you’re reading about in the paper every day, and I have a ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 3 December, 2018 | Topics: Ambassador, News, Speeches
The number of Sri Lankan students in the United States continues to grow, according to the 2018 Open Doors Report on International Educational Exchange. Currently, 3,309 Sri Lankans are enrolled in higher education institutions in the United States, which remains the top host of international students globally. The number of Sri Lankans enrolled in graduate ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 29 November, 2018 | Topics: News, Press Releases
November 15, 2018 Hilton Hotel, Colombo Thank you, and good evening. I’m really pleased that this can be one of my first public events in Colombo. It’s an opportunity to celebrate something I enjoy very much, which of course is food, and a double pleasure to be able to do it to showcase American cuisine ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 27 November, 2018 | Topics: Ambassador, News, Speeches
Location: Lipton Circus, Colombo 02, Sri Lanka. Event: The U.S. Embassy informs U.S. citizens of a political demonstration of up to 15,000 participants on November 15 at approximately 2:00 p.m. at Lipton Circus, Colombo 02. Actions to Take: The Embassy reminds citizens that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence. You ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 15 November, 2018 | Topics: Alert, Exclude, Messages for U.S. Citizens, Security & Emergency Messages
November 8, 2018 Location: Maligawatte, Old Parliament Roundabout, Kolluypitiya Junction to Parliament, Colombo, Sri Lanka,. Event: The U.S. Embassy advises U.S. citizens of a vehicle procession traveling from Galle Face Green to gather at Parliament beginning at 12:00 p.m. (noon) on November 8, 2018. This will likely result in heavy traffic along the route and ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 8 November, 2018 | Topics: Alert, Exclude
Location: Nation-wide. Event: The U.S. Embassy advises U.S. citizens of the probability of nationwide protests on November 4, 2018. Additionally, a large protest is scheduled for 2:00 pm on November 5, 2018, near Parliament in Colombo. U. S. citizens are reminded of an increased likelihood of civil unrest, strikes, and demonstrations stemming from continuing political ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 3 November, 2018 | Topics: Alert, Exclude, Messages for U.S. Citizens, Security & Emergency Messages
COLOMBO, November 1: Ambassador Alaina B. Teplitz officially began her tenure as the U.S. Ambassador to Sri Lanka today after presenting her credentials to President Maithripala Sirisena. The ceremony was held at the President’s official residence. Ambassador Teplitz was accompanied by her husband, Robert Saul. “I am honored to serve as the U.S. Ambassador to ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 1 November, 2018 | Topics: Ambassador, Exclude, News, Press Releases
Location: U.S. Embassy, Colombo, Sri Lanka. Event: The U.S. Embassy advises U.S. citizens that due to expected protests in the vicinity, the U.S. Embassy and the American Center in Colombo will be closed to the public from 12:00 p.m. (noon) on October 30, 2018 and is expected to re-open at 07:00 a.m. on October 31, 2018. Actions to ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 30 October, 2018 | Topics: Alert, Exclude, Messages for U.S. Citizens
Location: Colombo, Sri Lanka. Likely gathering points include, but are not limited to, Temple Trees, Town Hall, Lipton Circus, Liberty Circle, and Parliament. Event: The U.S. Embassy advises U.S. citizens of the probability of a large protest on October 30, 2018 at 12:00 p.m. near the Prime Minister’s residence, Temple Trees. Due to the current political situation, U. S. Citizens are reminded ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 29 October, 2018 | Topics: Alert, Exclude
Location: Nationwide, Sri Lanka. Likely gathering points include, but are not limited to, government institutions. Event: The U.S. Embassy advises U.S. citizens of an increased likelihood of political turmoil, civil unrest, and demonstrations as a result of the President of Sri Lanka’s decision to dismiss the Prime Minister and suspend parliament. The Embassy reminds citizens ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 29 October, 2018 | Topics: Alert, Exclude, Messages for U.S. Citizens
Press Statement Heather Nauert Department Spokesperson Washington, DC October 28, 2018 The United States continues to follow developments in Sri Lanka with concern. We urge all sides to refrain from intimidation and violence. We call on the President, in consultation with the Speaker, to immediately reconvene parliament and allow the democratically elected representatives of the ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 29 October, 2018 | Topics: News, Press Releases
AMB Wells remarks at IOC – Tamil (PDF 247 KB)
AMB Wells remarks at IOC – Sinhala (PDF 437 KB) Ambassador Wells: — I want to thank our hosts for this vitally important Track 1.5 dialogue. It’s a real pleasure to be here. I’d like to focus my remarks on two distinct ways in which the United States has taken concrete steps today to deepen our commitment to the ...
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By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 25 October, 2018 | Topics: Speeches
A delegation from the U.S. Department of State’s Office of Weapons Removal and Abatement visited Sri Lanka from October 8 to 12, 2018 to observe U.S.-funded demining activities and meet with some of the beneficiaries of these projects. The projects are part of the nearly 600 million Sri Lankan rupees ($3.5 million) in assistance that ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 23 October, 2018 | Topics: Press Releases
RAJAGALA, October 17: A stupa restored under a project funded by the U.S. Department of State through the Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP) was inaugurated yesterday by Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe. Funding for the project, initiated in 2013, totals nearly 43 million Sri Lankan rupees ($250,000). Counselor for Public Affairs David McGuire represented the ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 17 October, 2018 | Topics: Press Releases
JAFFNA, October 5: Chargé d’affaires Robert Hilton today inaugurated a two-year project to preserve pre-historic artifacts in the collection of the University of Jaffna. The funding is provided by the U.S. Department of State under the Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP) and totals more than 23 million Sri Lankan rupees ($140,000). The project will ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 10 October, 2018 | Topics: Exclude, News, Press Releases
[As prepared] October 5, 2018 It is a great pleasure to be here today and to have the opportunity to inaugurate this program, funded through the U.S. Department of State’s “Ambassador’s Fund for Cultural Preservation.” The Ambassador’s Fund for Cultural Preservation is one of the most important, exciting and successful programs that we run through ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 10 October, 2018 | Topics: News, Speeches
Media Note Office of the Spokesperson Washington, DC October 7, 2018 Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for the Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs Alice Wells will travel to Malé, Maldives and Colombo, Sri Lanka from October 9-11. Ambassador Wells will reiterate the strong U.S. commitment to our partnerships with Sri Lanka and Maldives and ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 8 October, 2018 | Topics: News, Press Releases
COLOMBO, October 5: Executive Vice President of the Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC) David Bohigian and other U.S. government officials visited Sri Lanka from October 3 to 5. The trip promoted U.S. investment in the region and strengthened cooperation with regional allies to drive economic growth and stability. The delegation met with Minister of Finance ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 5 October, 2018 | Topics: News, Press Releases
COLOMBO, Sri Lanka, September 20, 2018 – A delegation from the U.S. Government’s Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC), led by Chief Operating Officer Jonathan Nash, visited Sri Lanka this week to continue progress on the proposed MCC compact – a large-scale five-year grant program. MCC is developing the compact in partnership with the Government of Sri ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 20 September, 2018 | Topics: Exclude, News, Press Releases
EvalColombo2018, Global Parliamentarians’ Forum for Evaluation Colombo September 17, 2018 Good evening, Honorable Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe; Professor Maitree Wickremasinghe; Minister Kabir Hashim; Deputy Speaker of Parliament; Parliamentarians; honorable members of governments; distinguished guests; and ladies and gentlemen. It is an honor to share this evening with you. EvalColombo2018, “Responsible Parliaments – Embracing Evaluation for ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 18 September, 2018 | Topics: News, Speeches
Press Statement Heather Nauert Department Spokesperson Washington, DC September 6, 2018 The United States is concerned about continued democratic backsliding in Maldives, particularly as the country prepares for a presidential election on September 23. We join the international community in calling for the release of falsely accused political prisoners; full implementation of the Maldivian Supreme ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 7 September, 2018 | Topics: Press Releases
September 4, 2018: The U.S. Embassy signed a Memorandum of Understanding on August 30 with the Matara Chamber of Industry and Commerce to open a new American Corner in Matara. Ms. Nancy VanHorn, the U.S. Embassy’s acting Public Affairs Officer, and Mr. Metta Widanagamachchi, Chairman of the Chamber, signed the Memorandum. Located on the ground ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 4 September, 2018 | Topics: Exclude, News, Press Releases
INDIAN OCEAN, August 30: The USS Anchorage joined the Sri Lankan naval ship Suranimila to conduct an exercise at sea on August 28. The exercise allowed the ships to improve each crews’ knowledge and strengthen a wide variety of seamanship skills critical to operating throughout a free and open Indo-Pacific region. During the exercise, multiple ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 30 August, 2018 | Topics: Exclude, News, Press Releases
Honolulu, August 29: On August 27, the U.S. Coast Guard handed over a high endurance cutter, formerly the USCGC Sherman, to the Sri Lankan Navy in a ceremony presided over by Vice Admiral Sirimevan Ranasinghe, Commander of the Sri Lankan Navy, and Rear Admiral Michael Haycock of the U.S. Coast Guard. The cutter, a gift ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 29 August, 2018 | Topics: Exclude, News, Press Releases
COLOMBO, August 24: Amphibious transport dock USS Anchorage (LPD 23), with the embarked 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) arrived in Trincomalee, Sri Lanka, for a scheduled port visit Aug. 24. During the visit, Sailors and Marines will have opportunities to explore the local area and meet with their counterparts during exercises with the Sri Lankan ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 24 August, 2018 | Topics: News, Press Releases
August 17, 2018 Alagalle School, Vavuniya Ladies and gentlemen, thank you all for being here. It is a delight on behalf of the U.S. Embassy to welcome Major General Jim Eifert and our colleagues from the Sri Lankan Air Force for what is the 11th Operation Pacific Angel. U.S. and Sri Lankan military and civilian ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 20 August, 2018 | Topics: News, Speeches
Colombo, August 9, 2018 Minister Akila Viraj Kariyawasam, State Minister V.S. Radhakrishnan, Professor Nayani Melagoda, Peace Corps Country Director Kris Besch, and other distinguished guests, good morning. I am delighted to be here for the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry of Education and the Peace Corps. Indeed, the Peace Corps ethos ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 13 August, 2018 | Topics: News, Speeches
Colombo, August 13: On August 9, 2018, Sri Lankan Secretary to the Ministry of Education Sunil Hettiarachchi and Peace Corps/Sri Lanka Country Director Kris Besch signed a new Memorandum of Understanding to formalize support for English education by bringing U.S. Peace Corps Volunteers back to Sri Lanka. Peace Corps volunteers were present in Sri Lanka from ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 13 August, 2018 | Topics: News, Press Releases
COLOMBO, August 13: The U.S. Department of State is pleased to announce it will provide approximately $39 million in Foreign Military Financing for Sri Lanka, pending Congressional approval. We look forward to discussing with the Government of Sri Lanka how this contribution can support our Bay of Bengal initiative and Sri Lanka’s humanitarian assistance and ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 13 August, 2018 | Topics: News, Press Releases
August 1, Colombo – The United States and Sri Lanka will conduct humanitarian assistance engagements with multinational partners in and around Anuradhapura from August 6 to 20 as part of Pacific Angel 2018 (PACANGEL). PACANGEL is an annual joint humanitarian assistance and disaster relief engagement that includes general health, dental, optometry, pediatrics, and engineering programs, ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 6 August, 2018 | Topics: News, Press Releases
U.S. Chamber of Commerce Washington, DC July 30, 2018 ADMINISTRATOR GREEN: Thank you, and good morning. Thank you for the kind introduction, Selina. Good morning, everyone. So as Selina’s kind words suggest, I’ve had a varied career, covering many sectors and many shores. What hasn’t changed along the way is my admiration for our Chamber and ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 3 August, 2018 | Topics: News, Speeches, U.S. Agencies
July 30, 2018 Thanks very much. Thank you for the opportunity to say a few remarks and to join you on this, the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons. Special thanks to Simrin Singh and to the team at the ILO for organizing this event. Let me also acknowledge the Ministry of Telecommunications, Digital Infrastructure, ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 31 July, 2018 | Topics: Exclude, News, Speeches
Michael R. Pompeo Secretary of State Indo-Pacific Business Forum U.S. Chamber of Commerce Washington, DC July 30, 2018 SECRETARY POMPEO: Good morning, everyone. It’s great to be with you. Thank you, Tom, for the kind introduction. Thanks to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce for having me here and hosting this important Indo-Pacific Business Forum as well. ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 31 July, 2018 | Topics: Exclude, News, Speeches, U.S. Secretary of State | Tags: Michael R. Pompeo
July 19, 2018 Colombo Chargé d’Affaires Hilton: Thank you, I appreciate it. The bio as well. Bruce, you said you felt like you were performing in front of a circus. To me it feels like I ought to be dressed in a traditional Kandyan outfit in a celebrity wedding or perhaps a cricketer’s wedding of ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 20 July, 2018 | Topics: Exclude, News, Speeches
On June 29, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) awarded approximately 1.6 billion Sri Lankan rupees ($10,000,000) in grant assistance to Global Communities to engage local communities in reconciliation activities. This three-year initiative will partner with the Government of Sri Lanka and local civil society to address underlying challenges to reconciliation. The project ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 20 July, 2018 | Topics: News, Press Releases
July 20, 2018: The U. S. Embassy has launched the Small & Mighty grants competition, which is administered in cooperation with Sarvodaya. The U.S. Embassy created the Small & Mighty program to provide funding opportunities to smaller organizations and individuals that may not have the infrastructure to compete in the U.S. Embassy’s formal Notice of ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 20 July, 2018 | Topics: News, Press Releases
July 9, 2018 – As part of the U.S. government’s support for a reconciled and unified Sri Lanka, the U.S. Pacific Command (PACOM) renovated two schools in the Eastern Province. James L. Russo, the U.S. Embassy’s Counselor for Press, Academic, and Cultural Affairs, presided over the official ribbon cutting ceremonies on July 2 and 3, ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 9 July, 2018 | Topics: Exclude, News, Press Releases
June 21, 2018: Secretary Pompeo has announced that the United States withdrew from the United Nations Human Rights Council effective June 19, 2018. Ambassador Keshap met with senior Sri Lankan officials to convey the assurance of the United States Government that we will remain fully engaged with the Sri Lankan Government to help it meet ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 20 June, 2018 | Topics: News, Press Releases
COLOMBO, June 13, 2018 – The U.S. Government’s Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) Managing Director for Europe, Asia, Pacific, and Latin America Caroline Nguyen visited Sri Lanka from June 11 to 13 to advance the development of the proposed MCC compact – a large-scale five-year grant program. The U.S. government is developing this compact in partnership ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 13 June, 2018 | Topics: Exclude, News, Press Releases
Thank you Pamela and congratulations to all of the cadets here on joining Sri Lanka’s Foreign Service. I started my own diplomatic career 30 years ago and have enjoyed every minute of it, from my first assignment in Tunis to this posting as Deputy Chief of Mission in Colombo. I wish you every success representing ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 8 June, 2018 | Topics: Deputy Chief of Mission, Exclude, News, Speeches
Colombo, May 31, 2018: A bipartisan delegation from the U.S. House of Representatives visited Colombo from May 29 to 30 led by Congressman Mac Thornberry (Republican – Texas), Chairman of the House Armed Services Committee. The visit highlighted the broad bipartisan support for Sri Lanka in the U.S. Congress. “Across the U.S. government, we see ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 31 May, 2018 | Topics: Exclude, News, Press Releases
COLOMBO, May 23 2018: U.S. Ambassador to Sri Lanka and Maldives Atul Keshap, U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) Sri Lanka Mission Director Reed Aeschliman, and Dr. Michael Ernst from USAID’s Office of Foreign Disaster Assistance (OFDA) met with Minister of Irrigation and Water Resources Management and Disaster Management Duminda Dissanayake to discuss Sri Lanka’s ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 23 May, 2018 | Topics: Exclude, News, Press Releases
Ambassador Keshap: Thank you so much. Honorable Prime Minister, we are really delighted to have you here today to help us kick off this very happy event. And ladies and gentlemen, I want to extend to you a very warm welcome and my thanks to all of you as well for making it out to ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 18 May, 2018 | Topics: Ambassador, Exclude, News, Speeches
COLOMBO, May 18, 2018: U.S. Ambassador to Sri Lanka and Maldives Ambassador Atul Keshap launched a 2.2 billion rupee program ($14.1 million) Market-Oriented Dairy project on May 17 funded by the
U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). The Market-Oriented Dairy project will benefit more than 15,000 Sri Lankan farmers and will focus on the commercial sustainability of the dairy sector ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 18 May, 2018 | Topics: Ambassador, Exclude, News, Press Releases
Location: Colombo 07, Sri Lanka, Event: The U.S. Embassy informs U.S. citizens of a protest march organized by the Inter- University Buddhist Monks Federation that will be held today. Protesters plan to gather in the Albert Crescent area and march to the University Grants Commission on Ward Place. About 400 – 500 members are estimated to ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 16 May, 2018 | Topics: Alert, Messages for U.S. Citizens
COLOMBO, May 14, 2018: U.S. and Sri Lankan surgeons conducted the first ever robot-assisted surgery aboard the USNS Mercy on May 4. The joint team of multinational surgeons and medical professionals successfully completed a cholecystectomy, or gall bladder removal, on a Sri Lankan citizen using a Da Vinci XI Robot Surgical System. “This landmark surgery advances ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 14 May, 2018 | Topics: Exclude, News, Press Releases
Mike Pompeo Secretary of State Washington, DC April 27, 2018 On behalf of the people of the United States of America, I extend our warmest wishes to all those celebrating Vesak Day around the world. As Buddhist communities everywhere celebrate the life and teachings of Siddhartha Gautama, we pause to reflect on and honor the ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 29 April, 2018 | Topics: News, Press Releases
Location: Sri Lanka, island wide, 1-7 May Event: Between 1-7 May, the U.S. Embassy expects various groups and political parties will hold parades and rallies in conjunction with the annual Labor Day holiday. Known locations include, but are not limited to, Colombo, Jaffna, Galle, and Batticaloa. We expect these gatherings to be peaceful but people should anticipate ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 26 April, 2018 | Topics: Alert, Exclude, Messages for U.S. Citizens
[As prepared] Admiral Attygalle, Admiral De Silva, Captain Bretz, Captain Roberts, senior government officials, colleagues, partners, friends, good evening. To those joining us from the USNS Mercy, on behalf of U.S. Ambassador to Sri Lanka and Maldives Atul Keshap and all the personnel of the U.S. Embassy in Colombo, welcome to Sri Lanka. We are ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 25 April, 2018 | Topics: News, Speeches
COLOMBO, April 25, 2018: The U.S. Navy hospital ship USNS Mercy arrived in Trincomalee on April 25 to conduct the 2018 Pacific Partnership mission. Pacific Partnership 2018 will continue through May 8 and will feature U.S. and other military doctors and medical personnel working side-by-side with Sri Lankan medical professionals to provide treatment to local ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 25 April, 2018 | Topics: Exclude, News, Press Releases
Location: Colombo, Sri Lanka Event: The U.S. Embassy informs U.S. citizens that between 100-150 people are expected at a protest organized by the Socialist Youth Front in front of the Embassy today at approximately 4:00 pm. The Embassy will monitor the situation as it develops and provide updates as necessary. Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 23 April, 2018 | Topics: Alert, Messages for U.S. Citizens
Press Statement John J. Sullivan Acting Secretary of State Washington, DC April 12, 2018 On behalf of President Trump and the American people, I wish a joyous New Year to all the Sri Lankan people. The New Year celebration is a chance to reflect on the milestones of the past year, including the celebration of ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 16 April, 2018 | Topics: News
March 22, 2018: The U.S. Embassy launched an American Innovation Hub (iHub) in Matara on March 21, 2018 in partnership with the Matara District Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The iHub will provide employment and leadership skills for young people, promote English language learning, encourage study in the United States, and introduce the local community ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 22 March, 2018 | Topics: Exclude, News, Press Releases
As Prepared Geneva, March 19, 2018 The United States welcomes the delegation from Sri Lanka. We welcome the Government’s decision to accept our recommendations on full implementation of HRC resolution 30/1 and on accountability for the government’s, including the security forces, human rights violations and abuses, as well as accountability for those responsible for harassment ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 21 March, 2018 | Topics: News, Press Releases
Robert Hilton Deputy Chief of Mission, U.S. Embassy Colombo, Sri Lanka March 6, 2018 On behalf of U.S. Ambassador to Sri Lanka and Maldives Atul Keshap and all of us at the U.S. Embassy, welcome to Sri Lanka and thank you for coming. State Minister for Power and Renewable Energy Perera, Secretary Batagoda, Chairman Hewamana, ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 15 March, 2018 | Topics: Exclude, News, Speeches
COLOMBO, March 14, 2018: Reed J. Aeschliman assumed his duties as the new Mission Director of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) for Sri Lanka and Maldives on March 5, 2018. Mr. Aeschliman’s arrival corresponds with the start-up of several new initiatives and more than 4.5 billion Sri Lankan rupees in programs that ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 14 March, 2018 | Topics: Exclude, News, Press Releases
Location: Announced curfews include, but are not limited to, the following areas: · Kandy Administrative District Event: The Sri Lankan government declared an island-wide State of Emergency and curfews have been imposed in some regions due to communal unrest. Local authorities are authorized to declare local curfews. Further incidents are possible over the next few ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 6 March, 2018 | Topics: Alert
March 6, 2018 – COLOMBO: Rule of law, human rights, and equality are essential for peaceful coexistence. It is important that the Government of Sri Lanka act quickly against perpetrators of sectarian violence, protect religious minorities and their places of worship, and conclude the State of Emergency swiftly, while protecting human rights and basic freedoms for ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 6 March, 2018 | Topics: News, Press Releases
March 1, Colombo: Stephen Renna, Director of the Advocacy Center at the U.S. Department of Commerce, recently met with government leaders and U.S. companies in Colombo to discuss opportunities to increase U.S. exports to Sri Lanka. “The United States is eager to expand open, fair and reciprocal trade,” stated Stephen Renna during his visit. American ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 1 March, 2018 | Topics: News, Press Releases
February 28, 2018 – COLOMBO: The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) YouLead program and Microsoft Sri Lanka signed a partnership to launch the new YouthWorks information technology portal at the Ministry of Skills Development and Vocational Training in Colombo today. The portal will provide career guidance, technical and vocational courses, a mentorship platform, ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 1 March, 2018 | Topics: News, Press Releases
February 28, 2018 Colombo Minister of Skills Development and Vocational Training, Honorable Chandima Weerakkody; Secretary, Ministry of Skills Development and Vocational Training, Mr. Piyasena Ranepura; Microsoft Country Manager, Mr. Hasitha Abeywardana; distinguished guests; ladies and gentlemen; good morning and welcome! I am delighted to join you today to launch the “Youthworks” portal, a joint initiative ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 28 February, 2018 | Topics: Exclude, News, Speeches
COLOMBO, February 26, 2018 – Sheila Crowley, Acting Director of the U.S. Peace Corps, and Sri Lankan Foreign Minister
Tilak Marapana signed a new bilateral agreement to re-establish a Peace Corps program in Sri Lanka. U.S. Ambassador to Sri Lanka and Maldives Atul Keshap and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremasinghe witnessed the signing at Temple Trees. The announcement ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 27 February, 2018 | Topics: Exclude, News, Press Releases
February 22, 2018, Colombo: Join American jazz sensation Wycliffe Gordon and the U.S. Embassy for a celebration of 70 years of U.S – Sri Lankan partnership (#USASL70). The legendary Wycliffe Gordon and His International All Stars will tour Sri Lanka February 24 to 28, staging performances and master classes in Colombo, Galle, and Matara, bringing this truly American music genre from across the ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 22 February, 2018 | Topics: Exclude, News, Press Releases
The United States is disappointed by reports that Maldivian President Yameen has extended the state of emergency in that country for an additional 30 days. The United States continues to call on President Yameen to end the state of emergency, uphold the rule of law, permit the full and proper functioning of the Parliament and ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 21 February, 2018 | Topics: News, Press Releases
Colombo, February 7, 2018: Visiting U.S. Department of State Deputy Assistant Secretary for South and Central Asian Affairs Daniel Rosenblum opened the Kandy YouLead office on February 2, which will expand employment opportunities for youth in the Central Province. Funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and implemented in partnership with the ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 7 February, 2018 | Topics: Exclude, News, Press Releases | Tags: USAID
Exercise increased caution in Maldives due to terrorism and civil unrest. Terrorist groups may conduct attacks with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, and local government facilities. Attacks may occur on remote islands which could lengthen the response time of authorities. A country-wide state of emergency is in effect. ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 7 February, 2018 | Topics: Alert, Messages for U.S. Citizens
Location: Central Male, Maldives Event: Demonstrations are expected to take place from February 6 through February 15, 2018 as the president of the Maldives has declared a state of emergency until February 15. Groups are expected to protest in central Male in response to emerging political developments. Actions to Take: Avoid the areas of the demonstrations. Exercise caution if unexpectedly in ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 5 February, 2018 | Topics: Alert
There is an increased chance of protests in central Male in response to emerging political developments. Further demonstrations are possible over the weekend. Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence. You should avoid areas of demonstrations and exercise caution if in the vicinity of any large gatherings, protests, or ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 3 February, 2018 | Topics: Alert, Messages for U.S. Citizens
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE Office of the Spokesperson STATEMENT BY HEATHER NAUERT, SPOKESPERSON February 2, 2018 Maldives Court Ruling to Free Opposition Politicians The United States welcomes the decision by the Supreme Court to order the release of political prisoners and to reinstate elected members of parliament. The United States urges the Maldivian government to ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 3 February, 2018 | Topics: Exclude, News
February 1, Colombo: February 4th marks the 70th anniversary of Sri Lankan independence. It also marks the70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the United States and Sri Lanka. In honor of this milestone, the U.S. Embassy in Colombo will launch a series of programs over the course of the next twelve months. Encompassing cultural events, ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 1 February, 2018 | Topics: News, Press Releases
The U. S. Embassy informs U. S. citizens that a demonstration by a group of student today, Thursday, January 25, 2018. Although the exact time and expected route of the protest have not been confirmed, it could involve up to 4000 protestors and result in road closures along Galle Road and near Town Hall. Expect heavy ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 25 January, 2018 | Topics: Alert, Messages for U.S. Citizens
The U.S. Embassy has returned to normal operations. The American Center in Colombo is open to the public.
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 23 January, 2018 | Topics: News
At this time, scheduled passport and visa services at the U.S. Embassy will continue during the lapse in appropriations as the situation permits. The American Center in Colombo is closed until further notice.
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 21 January, 2018 | Topics: News
January 19, Colombo: The U.S. government will award more than 183 million rupees ($1.2 million) to counter trafficking in persons in Sri Lanka over the next three years. The U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs will award the new project “Equipping Sri Lanka to Counter Trafficking in Persons (EQUIP)” to ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 19 January, 2018 | Topics: News, Press Releases
December 29, Colombo: The United States’ Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) program expires on December 31, 2017. The United States Congress did not re-authorize GSP before adjourning for the year. The immediate effect of GSP expiration is GSP eligible imports to the United States from Sri Lanka and other GSP beneficiary countries and territories will ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 29 December, 2017 | Topics: News, Press Releases
Colombo, December 26, 2017: The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the Government of Maldives inaugurated a $3.8 million integrated water supply and distribution system on December 25, providing a safe and reliable water source for more than 4,000 residents of Hinnavaru Island. The system collects water from rainwater harvesting tanks, mixes it ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 27 December, 2017 | Topics: Press Releases
“Our government’s first duty is to its people, to our citizens — to serve their needs, to ensure their safety, to preserve their rights, and to defend their values. ” – President Donald J. Trump A NEW NATIONAL SECURITY STRATEGY FOR A NEW ERA: Less than a year after taking office, President Donald J. Trump is ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 19 December, 2017 | Topics: Exclude, News, President of the United States, Speeches | Tags: Donald J. Trump
The U.S. Embassy has been notified of an expected protest today at 1300 at Galle Face Green. The Embassy has also received word that a separate group will be gathering in the Maligawatte area at 1300 to march to Galle Face Green, possibly to join up with the first group. Expect heavy traffic and congestion ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 12 December, 2017 | Topics: Exclude, Messages for U.S. Citizens, Security & Emergency Messages
December 12, Colombo: On December 8, the Governments of Sri Lanka and the United States launched a two-year HIV/AIDS Technical Assistance Partnership to fast track government efforts to end AIDS by 2025. The U.S. Government’s development agency – U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) – through the President’s Emergency Fund for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), will help to transfer promising solutions, new technical ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 12 December, 2017 | Topics: Exclude, News, Press Releases
Fact Sheet Office of the Spokesperson Washington, DC December 5, 2017 On the eve of International Anti-corruption Day, the United States is pleased to co-host the December 4-6, inaugural Global Forum on Asset Recovery (GFAR) with the United Kingdom, as a demonstration of continued U.S. commitment to preventing and combatting corruption globally. According to the ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 7 December, 2017 | Topics: News
December 5, Colombo: On December 4, U.S. Ambassador to Sri Lanka and the Maldives Atul Keshap and Secretary of Civil Aviation Mr. G. S. Withanage signed an agreement to amend the U.S.-Sri Lanka Open Skies Agreement of 2002 to facilitate the movement of cargo goods more efficiently and profitably. The amendment strengthens global express delivery ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 5 December, 2017 | Topics: Exclude, News, Press Releases
Governor Bogollagama, Member of Parliament Moulana, teachers, staff and students, good afternoon and as-salamu alaykum. I’m delighted to be here today to formally open this beautiful addition to the Bathuriya Vidyalaya school, and most importantly, to meet with some of the engaging young people who are studying here. And let me thank the students who ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 20 November, 2017 | Topics: Exclude, News, Speeches
Statement by Jason Mack Delegation of the United States of America to 28th Session, Universal Periodic Review, Geneva, November 15, 2017 Thank you Mr. Vice President. The United States warmly welcomes the Sri Lankan delegation to the UPR Working Group. We commend Sri Lanka’s commitment to promoting reconciliation, accountability, and human rights, and welcome progress on returning occupied ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 16 November, 2017 | Topics: Exclude, News
Remarks delivered by Under Secretary for Political Affairs Thomas A. Shannon, Jr. at the U.S.-Sri Lanka Partnership Dialogue Colombo, Sri Lanka November 6, 2017 Thank you very much, Mr. Foreign Secretary. What a great pleasure to be here today in Colombo, and what a great pleasure to be standing here with you, sir. As you noted, we worked together ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 8 November, 2017 | Topics: Exclude, News, Speeches
Joint Statement from the U.S. Department of State and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Sri Lanka on the Second U.S. – Sri Lanka Partnership Dialogue November 6, 2017 Sharing a commitment to democracy, rule of law, and the prosperity and well-being of our peoples, Sri Lanka and the United States convened the second Partnership ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 7 November, 2017 | Topics: Exclude, News, Speeches
NOTICE OF FUNDING OPPORTUNITY FOR U.S. Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP) 2018 large Grants Competition Funding Opportunity Number: PAS-COL-AFCP-LG-2018 Funding Instrument Type: Grant Program Authorization: “Mutual Educational and Cultural Exchange Act of 1961” P.L. 87-256 CFDA Number: 19.025 Floor on Amount of Individual Awards: US $200,000 per project Email:
ColomboPDGrants@state.gov Deadline: December 6, 2017 ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 6 November, 2017 | Topics: Art & Culture, News | Tags: AFCP
Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs Thomas A. Shannon will visit Dhaka, Bangladesh, and Colombo, Sri Lanka, November 5–7. While in Dhaka, November 5–6, Under Secretary Shannon will co-lead the U.S.-Bangladesh Partnership Dialogue and discuss bilateral, regional, and global issues, including the Rohingya crisis, with government and non-government officials. Under Secretary Shannon will then ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 3 November, 2017 | Topics: Press Releases
COLOMBO, November 1 – The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has been working closely with the Government of Sri Lanka on disaster preparedness and response, to help address and mitigate the loss of lives and property resulting from the increased frequency of flash floods and landslides. Most recently, USAID brought the lead designer of the ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 1 November, 2017 | Topics: News, Press Releases | Tags: USAID
Funding Opportunity Number: PAS-COL-AFCP-SML-2018 Funding Instrument Type: Grant Program Authorization: “Mutual Educational and Cultural Exchange Act of 1961” (P.L. 87-256 Sec 102(b)(5), as amended) CFDA Number: 19.025 Floor on Amount of Individual Awards: US $10,000 per project Ceiling on Amount of Individual Awards: US $200,000 per project Email:
ColomboPDGrants@state.gov Deadline: December 1, 2017 Program Description ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 31 October, 2017 | Topics: Art & Culture, Consular Affairs, News
Ambassador Atul Keshap and other dignitaries including Ministers Ruwan Wijewardena and Mahinda Samarasinghe, Chief of Defence Staff Admiral Ravindra C. Wijegunaratne and Secretary to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Prasad Kariyawasam toured the USS Nimitz and welcomed U.S. Sailors to Sri Lanka. Ambassador Keshap said U.S. Sailors & Marines help keep vital Indian Ocean sea lanes open, ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 28 October, 2017 | Topics: Ambassador, Exclude, News
COLOMBO, October 27 – The Nimitz Carrier Strike Group is scheduled to arrive in Colombo, Sri Lanka for a planned port visit on October 28. The Carrier Strike Group includes the USS Nimitz, the cruiser USS Princeton, and destroyers USS Howard, USS Shoup, USS Pinckney, and USS Kidd. The ships are scheduled to depart Colombo on October 31, ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 27 October, 2017 | Topics: Exclude, News, Press Releases
COLOMBO, October 26 – From October 16-19, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) strengthened partnerships between organizations and local humanitarian response by co-hosting more than 140 participants from 36 countries in Colombo for the Forum on Localizing Response to Humanitarian Need and the Role of Religious and Faith-based Organizations. Representing local and global faith networks, ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 26 October, 2017 | Topics: News, Press Releases | Tags: USAID
Ambassador Atul Keshap and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremasinghe attended the inauguration of an innovation center created by Star Garments, a division of the U.S.-based Komar company, last week. “American companies bring the best and highest standards of ethics, of design, of innovation, of technology, of responsible management, and absolutely cutting edge environmental responsibility,” said Ambassador ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 23 October, 2017 | Topics: Ambassador, Exclude, News, Press Releases, Speeches
Colombo, October 20: The governments of Sri Lanka and the United States launched the YouLead! initiative on October 19, a 1.8 billion rupee program funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) to support youth employability, vocational skills development, and entrepreneurship. U.S. Ambassador Atul Keshap and Minister Chandima Weerakkody joined for the inauguration ceremony at the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce in Colombo. U.S. Ambassador Atul Keshap said, ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 20 October, 2017 | Topics: Ambassador, Exclude, News, Press Releases
Remarks Rex W. Tillerson Secretary of State John J. Hamre, CEO for the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) Center for Strategic & International Studies Washington, DC October 18, 2017 SECRETARY TILLERSON: Well, thank you so much, John, and it is a real pleasure to be back in the building. And I was asking John ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 19 October, 2017 | Topics: Exclude, Former U.S. Government Leaders, News, Speeches | Tags: Rex Tillerson
The U. S. Embassy informs U. S. citizens that a demonstration by the Front Line Socialist Party is planned in front of the US Embassy today, Tuesday, 17th October 2017. Although the time and expected size of the protest have not been confirmed, it could begin as early as 10 am, and involve up to ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 17 October, 2017 | Topics: Exclude, Messages for U.S. Citizens, Security & Emergency Messages
COLOMBO, October 17: Due to technical issues, the registration period for DV-2019 is being restarted and all entries made prior to October 18, 2017 will need to be resubmitted for the entrant to be considered. The technical issue was a failure to properly account for country of eligibility if the entrant was selecting a country ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 16 October, 2017 | Topics: News, Press Releases
At the Galle Dialogue 2017, Admiral Scott Swift emphasized, “Engagement and building trust remains a critical part of maintaining the inclusive security network that sustains the rules-based order and helps protect freedom of the seas for the benefit of all nations.” Admiral Swift also noted, “Just as nations and their maritime forces have the ability ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 11 October, 2017 | Topics: Exclude, News, Press Releases, Speeches
COLOMBO October 4 – The U.S. Embassy in Colombo is pleased to announce the start of the 2019 Diversity Visa Lottery Program, also known as the “Green Card” Lottery. The program will be open for online registration from October 3, 2017 to November 7, 2017. The Diversity Visa Lottery allows randomly selected applicants the opportunity ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 4 October, 2017 | Topics: Exclude, News, Press Releases
October 2, 2017 HONORING THE VICTIMS OF THE TRAGEDY IN LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – – – – – – – BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA A PROCLAMATION Our Nation is heartbroken. We mourn with all whose loved ones were murdered and injured in last night’s horrible tragedy in Las Vegas, Nevada. ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 3 October, 2017 | Topics: Exclude, News, President of the United States | Tags: Donald J. Trump
[As prepared] Thank you Ravin for the warm introduction. It’s a pleasure to join you once again for the Annual General Meeting of the American Chamber of Commerce in Sri Lanka. I would like to thank the AmCham Board of Directors for hosting this event and Radika and her staff for all the hard work ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 29 September, 2017 | Topics: Exclude, News, Press Releases, Speeches
On September 25, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) awarded approximately LKR 97 million ($625,000) to three local organizations to recycle municipal waste in the western coastal belt and Galle district. The three organizations, Janathakshan, Sevanatha, and the Sri Lanka Centre for Development Facilitation, will help communities partner with local government to prevent ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 27 September, 2017 | Topics: News, Press Releases | Tags: USAID
Colombo, September 21: The U.S. Department of State’s Export Control and Related Border Security (EXBS) Program and the World Customs Organization (WCO) trained 34 Customs Officials from Sri Lanka in strategic trade controls enforcement from September 12 to September 15, 2017. The methodology discussed in the workshop allows Customs Administrations to focus on cargo entering ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 21 September, 2017 | Topics: Exclude, News, Press Releases
Colombo, September 18: The United States and Sri Lanka conducted the Pacific Airlift Rally, a biennial exercise, from September 11 to 15, 2017. The Pacific Airlift Rally brought together participants from the United States, Sri Lanka, and other Indo-Asia-Pacific nations for an airborne training exercise that focused on humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations. Participants ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 18 September, 2017 | Topics: Exclude, News, Press Releases
The U.S. Embassy informs U.S. citizens of a protest scheduled to take place today by the JVP and University students against SITAM Private Medical College. Approximately 3000-5000 protestors will assemble in several small towns outside of Colombo and march toward Lipton Circus, planning to arrive at approximately 2:20 PM (see the below map for possible ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 15 September, 2017 | Topics: Exclude, Messages for U.S. Citizens, Security & Emergency Messages
Good afternoon ladies and gentlemen, it’s a pleasure to be here on behalf of Admiral Harris, Commander, U.S. Pacific Command. He regrets not being able to attend, and sends his best regards. I would like to thank the organizing committee and Sri Lankan Prime Minister Wickremesinghe as committee chair, for all your tireless efforts in ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 11 September, 2017 | Topics: News, Speeches
Statement of Ambassador Alice Wells Acting Assistant Secretary, Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs U.S. Department of State Before the HFAC Subcommittee on Asia and the Pacific “Maintaining U.S. Influence in South Asia: The FY 2018 Budget” September 7, 2017 Introduction Chairman Yoho, Ranking Member Sherman, members of the Subcommittee: thank you for inviting ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 8 September, 2017 | Topics: Exclude, News, Press Releases
Colombo, September 1: Acting Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs Alice G. Wells will conclude her visit to Sri Lanka September 2, 2017. In her conversations, Ambassador Wells emphasized continued U.S. support for the Government of Sri Lanka’s efforts to promote reconciliation, economic development, and equal rights for all Sri Lankans. Ambassador ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 1 September, 2017 | Topics: Exclude, News, Press Releases
Indian Ocean Conference 2017, Colombo, Sri Lanka September 1, 2017 AS DELIVERED I want to thank the India Foundation and our partners in Singapore and Sri Lanka for your leadership in organizing this conference. And let me begin by reaffirming a longstanding facet of U.S. foreign policy: that the United States is and will continue ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 1 September, 2017 | Topics: News, Speeches
The U.S. Embassy informs U.S. citizens that approximately 1,000 people are currently demonstrating near Parliament. At this time Parliament Road is closed to traffic. Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence. You should avoid areas of demonstrations, and exercise caution if in the vicinity of any large gatherings, protests, ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 31 August, 2017 | Topics: Exclude, Messages for U.S. Citizens, Security & Emergency Messages
Media Note Office of the Spokesperson Washington, DC August 26, 2017 Acting Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs and Acting Special Representative for Afghanistan and Pakistan Alice Wells will travel to Dhaka and Colombo from August 28-September 2. She will meet with government officials, business leaders, and civil society representatives to ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 28 August, 2017 | Topics: News, Press Releases
Colombo, August 25: The U.S. Department of State’s Export Control and Related Border Security (EXBS) Program trained 33 customs officials from Sri Lanka in risk management of cargo from August 21, 2017 to August 25, 2017. The training was conducted in Colombo and coordinated by EXBS. Participants learned how to identify high-risk shipments and improve ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 25 August, 2017 | Topics: News, Press Releases
The events taking place in the Majlis over the past few days are disturbing and unfortunate. A free and fair Parliament governed by impartial rules is essential to the proper functioning of any healthy democracy. I call upon the Government of Maldives to ensure that the Majlis function freely in accordance with Maldivian law and ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 24 August, 2017 | Topics: Ambassador, News, Press Releases, Speeches
Press Statement Rex W. Tillerson Secretary of State Washington, DC August 21, 2017 This evening, President Trump announced the new integrated strategy for the U.S. approach to South Asia that will require diplomatically engaging Pakistan, Afghanistan and India to create the conditions for stability in the region. This new strategy signals clear support for the ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 22 August, 2017 | Topics: Exclude, Former U.S. Government Leaders, News, Press Releases | Tags: Rex Tillerson
Colombo, August 11: A bipartisan delegation of Members of Congress from the U.S. House of Representatives arrived in Colombo on Wednesday, August 9 to further strengthen ties between the governments and people of Sri Lanka and the United States. Congressman Rodney Frelinghuysen of New Jersey, Chairman of the House Appropriations Committee, and Congressman Henry Cuellar ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 11 August, 2017 | Topics: Exclude, News, Press Releases
Colombo, August 8: The U.S. Department of State’s Export Control and Related Border Security (EXBS) Program trained 18 Customs and Coast Guard Officials from Sri Lanka, Maldives, India, and Bangladesh in seaport interdiction from July 31, 2017 to August 4, 2017. The training was conducted in Colombo and coordinated by EXBS. Participants learned cutting-edge inspection ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 8 August, 2017 | Topics: News, Press Releases
Media Note Office of the Spokesperson Washington, DC August 6, 2017 Following is the text of a joint statement issued at the conclusion of the Australia-Japan-United States Trilateral Strategic Dialogue Ministerial: Begin text: The Minister for Foreign Affairs of Australia, Julie Bishop, the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, Taro Kono, and the Secretary of ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 8 August, 2017 | Topics: News, Press Releases
Colombo, August 4: Deputy Chief of Mission Robert Hilton inaugurated a newly refurbished building at the Jaffna Hindu Ladies’ College on July 31, 2017 that will support reconciliation and stabilization and provide girls in Jaffna with opportunity to study in a modern facility. Coordinating closely with the Sri Lanka Ministry of Education and the Northern ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 4 August, 2017 | Topics: Exclude, News, Press Releases
Colombo, July 27: A delegation from the U.S. Government’s Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) led by Fatema Z. Sumar, Regional Deputy Vice President for Europe, Asia, the Pacific, and Latin America, visited Colombo to advance progress on the development of the MCC compact—a five-year grant program—with the Government of Sri Lanka that aims to reduce poverty ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 27 July, 2017 | Topics: Exclude, News, Press Releases
The Embassies of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, the United States of America, and the EU Delegation to Sri Lanka and the Maldives are alarmed by the recent actions of the Government of Maldives which seriously damage and undermine democracy, and run counter to the Maldives’ Constitution and the ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 25 July, 2017 | Topics: News, Press Releases
Colombo, July 20: K. Mathanakumari, a single mother of three from Mullaitivu, faced many challenges to feed, clothe, and educate her children. Despite her hard work trying to provide a better life for her family, Mathanakumari had difficulties gaining access to basic resources and techniques to improve production from her dairy farm. In April 2015, ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 20 July, 2017 | Topics: News, Press Releases
Colombo, July 12: The Embassy of the United States of America and U.S. Pacific Command medical experts recently completed training for local doctors, nurses, schools, and the Maldivian Red Crescent in Kulhudhuffushi, Haa Dhaalu Atoll. This is part of ongoing U.S. assistance to help Maldivians provide better pre-hospital care and medical skills to respond to ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 12 July, 2017 | Topics: News, Press Releases
Colombo, July 12: As part of its efforts to advance U.S.-Sri Lankan economic ties and prosperity, the Embassy of the United States of America recently supported Cheryl Edison, American innovation expert, to work with Sri Lanka’s leading IT entrepreneurs, engineering students, and Information and Communications Technology Agency (ICTA) representatives. Edison was also the keynote speaker ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 12 July, 2017 | Topics: Exclude, News, Press Releases
Dr. Pradeepa Wigetunge, Mr. R.P. Perera, members of the board of the Sri Lanka Library Association (SLLA), thank you for inviting me to join you today. Recipients of certificates and medals, awards and fellowships, congratulations to you. This is your day. And congratulations to your family members and friends who are here as well. On ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 11 July, 2017 | Topics: News, Speeches
The U.S. Embassy has received information that at approximately 3:00pm today there will be a religious procession of between 400 and 500 people starting at St. Michael’s Road. The procession will continue onto Galle Road (in front of the embassy), Rotunda Gardens, Pittala Junction, Duplication Road, and back up Galle Road to St. Michael’s. There ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 6 July, 2017 | Topics: Exclude, Messages for U.S. Citizens, Security & Emergency Messages
On July 4th, Americans around the world gather to celebrate our nation’s Declaration of Independence. The American Founding Fathers had a vision of a democratic nation where every individual would enjoy certain “inalienable Rights,” including “life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.” Since 1776 the American people have striven, sometimes slowly and imperfectly but always ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 4 July, 2017 | Topics: Ambassador, News, Speeches
The U.S. Embassy has received information about a protest that is underway at Galle Face Green. About 100 people carrying Indian flags are gathered may intend on protesting outside the Indian High Commission. At this time the group is not blocking traffic or creating problems in the area. Please take note if you plan on transiting ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 28 June, 2017 | Topics: Exclude, Messages for U.S. Citizens, Security & Emergency Messages
The U.S. Embassy has received information about a student protest that is underway that began from Fort Railway Station today. About 600 students were marching towards Ceramic Junction. At this time Lotus Road is closed to traffic from the Ceramic Junction up to Galle Face. We remind U.S. citizens that even demonstrations intended to be ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 27 June, 2017 | Topics: Exclude, Messages for U.S. Citizens, Security & Emergency Messages
U.S. Embassy Colombo has been made aware of an increase in incidents involving Tuk-tuk drivers in the Colombo area inappropriately touching female passengers. The U.S. Embassy reminds all U.S. Citizens to maintain situational awareness when in public and at home to avoid being a victim of crime. Please consider the following security tips: Females should avoid traveling in ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 26 June, 2017 | Topics: Exclude, Messages for U.S. Citizens, Security & Emergency Messages
COLOMBO, June 22: U.S. Ambassador Atul Keshap visited the Eastern Province this week to commemorate a milestone in U.S.-supported demining efforts and to attend the groundbreaking ceremony at a school to construct facilities to help communities displaced by natural disasters. During the visit, Ambassador Keshap also met leaders and activists working on post-conflict reconciliation and ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 22 June, 2017 | Topics: Ambassador, Exclude, News, Press Releases
Ladies and gentlemen, it is a delight to see all of you today, especially during this very holy month of Ramadan. Even as we are all gathered here tonight for this iftar, I’m reminded that all across the United States there are millions of Muslim Americans who are also gathering to celebrate iftar with their ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 21 June, 2017 | Topics: News, Speeches
COLOMBO, June 16: Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Ravi Karunanayake and Sri Lanka Navy Commander Admiral Ravindra Wijegunaratne joined U.S. Ambassador Atul Keshap to visit the captain and crew aboard the USS Lake Erie to express their appreciation for the flood relief work provided by U.S. Navy sailors visiting Sri Lanka. “I want to thank Captain ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 16 June, 2017 | Topics: Exclude, News, Press Releases
It is a real honor for me to welcome all of you tonight to the United States Embassy’s Iftar gathering. It is particularly an honor for me to see all of the fellow Ambassadors and Ministers, leaders of political parties, Honorable Mr. Secretary, leaders from civil society, people from all walks of life, friends of ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 15 June, 2017 | Topics: Ambassador, News, Speeches
I’ve had a very productive set of meetings today. I met with His Excellency, the President, and also the Foreign and Defense and Economy Ministers. It’s a real pleasure and a delight to be back in Male and to see so many friends from around Maldivian society. I had the privilege of visiting Addu yesterday ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 14 June, 2017 | Topics: News, Speeches
COLOMBO, June 11: U.S. Embassy Chargé d’affaires Robert Hilton welcomed USS Lake Erie on its arrival in Colombo today with embarked U.S. military personnel to support humanitarian assistance efforts across flood-affected areas across Sri Lanka. “We share in the sorrow of the Sri Lankan people at the loss of life and devastation brought on by ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 11 June, 2017 | Topics: Exclude, News, Press Releases
American Chamber of Commerce in Sri Lanka /Asia Foundation June 6, 2017 I want to thank the entire American Chamber of Commerce in Sri Lanka (AmCham) for putting this together. It’s great to partner with you guys. AmChams all around the broader Indo-Pacific are a wonderful way for American companies to show their value, transparency, highest standards of ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 7 June, 2017 | Topics: News, Speeches
June 3, 2017 It was my great honor today to pay a call on President Sirisena and convey to him the condolences and sympathies of the American people for all of the loss of life of the flooding taken place in southern Sri Lanka in the past week. I also informed him that we had made ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 4 June, 2017 | Topics: News, Speeches
Colombo, June 4: U.S. Ambassador to Sri Lanka Atul Keshap joined President Maithripala Sirisena to announce approximately LKR 350 million ($2.3 million) in humanitarian assistance from the United States government and people to help victims of flooding and landslides in Sri Lanka. The aid will be used to provide safe drinking water, hygiene kits, emergency ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 4 June, 2017 | Topics: News, Press Releases
The White House Office of the Press Secretary On behalf of the American people, I would like to wish all Muslims a joyful Ramadan. During this month of fasting from dawn to dusk, many Muslims in America and around the world will find meaning and inspiration in acts of charity and meditation that strengthen ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 27 May, 2017 | Topics: News
Press Statement Rex W. Tillerson Secretary of State Washington, DC May 26, 2017 On behalf of the United States Department of State, Renda and I sincerely wish Muslims around the world a peaceful and blessed Ramadan. Ramadan is a month of reverence, generosity, and self-reflection. Most importantly, it is a cherished time for family and ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 27 May, 2017 | Topics: News
Remarks as prepared for delivery Thank You. I want to thank King Salman for his extraordinary words, and the magnificent Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for hosting today’s summit. I am honored to be received by such gracious hosts. I have always heard about the splendor of your country and the kindness of your citizens, but ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 22 May, 2017 | Topics: News, Speeches
The U.S. Embassy has received information about a student protest organized by the Inter-University Student Federation (IUSF) today at noon against the SITAM (Private Medical College). Over 500 students are expected to assemble in front of Fort Railway Station, and then march to the University Grants Commission (UGC) at Ward Place via Union Place and Town ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 17 May, 2017 | Topics: Exclude, Messages for U.S. Citizens, Security & Emergency Messages
Press Statement Rex W. Tillerson Secretary of State Washington, DC May 9, 2017 On behalf of the people of the United States of America, I offer our best wishes to all those celebrating Vesak Day. As Buddhist communities around the world gather, we wish you a joyous remembrance of the birth, enlightenment, and passing of ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 12 May, 2017 | Topics: Former U.S. Government Leaders | Tags: Rex Tillerson
The U.S. Embassy Public Affairs Section (PAS) is pleased to announce that funding is available through the Embassy’s Public Diplomacy grants program for awards. Funding Opportunity Title: U.S. Embassy Colombo Funding Opportunity Number: PAS-COL-010 CFDA Number: Public Diplomacy Programs for Sri Lanka – 19.040 Funding Instrument Type: Grant or Cooperative Agreement Floor of Individual Award Amounts: $5,000 ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 9 May, 2017 | Topics: News
Colombo, May 4: 2018 Diversity Visa Program entrants can now check the status of their applications at the following website:
http://www.dvlottery.state.gov . Applicants should retain confirmation receipts until September 30, 2018. The Department of State advises the public of a notable increase in fraudulent emails and letters sent to Diversity Program applicants. The scammers behind these ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 4 May, 2017 | Topics: Press Releases
The U.S. Embassy Sri Lanka informs U.S. citizens that Sri Lanka celebrates International Workers’ Day on May 1, 2017. Organized rallies and demonstrations are planned in Colombo and other areas throughout Sri Lanka. The U.S. Embassy in Sri Lanka urges U. S. citizens travelling to exercise caution and avoid demonstrations and large gatherings. Please also anticipate ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 28 April, 2017 | Topics: Exclude, Messages for U.S. Citizens, Security & Emergency Messages
Colombo, April 26, 2017: Experts on intellectual property (IP) rights from around the world gathered today on World IP Day to support strengthening Sri Lanka’s intellectual property efforts. The seminar is part of several workshops this week to highlight the economic benefits of innovation and IP protection for the Sri Lankan people. “Intellectual property rights ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 26 April, 2017 | Topics: Exclude, News, Press Releases
April 10, 2017: On April 8, hundreds of students and families from seven North Ari Atoll islands joined Maldivian and U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) officials to celebrate the Moodhu Maa-Kan’du marine festival on Rasdhoo Island. The event is part of a U.S.-funded project to strengthen the management of the coral reef ecosystem in ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 10 April, 2017 | Topics: News, Press Releases
Women entrepreneurs from the Central Province promoted and sold their products at a U.S. Embassy-sponsored trade fair at the American Center in Kandy on March 30, 2017. This fair served as the capstone event for a five-month program to provide entrepreneurial skills to women representing the area’s diverse communities. The free program provided participants with ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 6 April, 2017 | Topics: Exclude, News, Press Releases
The U.S. Embassy has received information about a student protest today at approximately 1:30 pm. Approximately 400-500 students are expected to assemble at Horton Place and march to the Presidential Secretariat. Police have assembled in the area near Horton Place. We remind U.S. citizens that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn violent. Please ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 4 April, 2017 | Topics: Exclude, Messages for U.S. Citizens, Security & Emergency Messages
Release No. 20160404 Colombo, April 4: On behalf of the people of the United States, I extend my heartfelt condolences to the Government and the people of Sri Lanka on the passing of the Chief Prelate of the Amarapura Chapter, Most Venerable Davuldena Gnanissara Mahanayake Thero. Sri Lankans and Americans who knew the late Mahanayake ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 4 April, 2017 | Topics: Press Releases
The U.S. Embassy has received information about an ongoing protest in front of the Indian High Commission, next to the American Center. Protesters are currently marching toward the Galle Face area. We remind U.S. citizens that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn violent. Please exercise caution if in the vicinity of any demonstrations; ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 3 April, 2017 | Topics: Exclude, Messages for U.S. Citizens, Security & Emergency Messages
COLOMBO, April 1: USS Comstock (LSD 45) departed Sri Lanka today following a week of exchanges with the Sri Lankan Navy and Marine Corps. These exercises focused on improving humanitarian assistance and disaster relief efforts and coordination, the third such military-to-military exchange between U.S. Sailors and Marines and their Sri Lankan counterparts in the past ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 1 April, 2017 | Topics: Exclude, News, Press Releases
MODERATOR: Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome the First Lady of the United States, Melania Trump; Acting Deputy Secretary of State Tom Shannon; and the 2017 International Women of Courage Award recipients. (Applause.) UNDER SECRETARY SHANNON: Good morning. It’s my great pleasure to welcome you to the State Department and the 2017 International Women of Courage ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 30 March, 2017 | Topics: Exclude, News, Speeches | Tags: Human Rights, IWOC
Each year, the U.S. Department of State recognizes the exceptional courage and commitment of women who serve as advocates for human rights, justice, peace, and gender equality. Today, Sri Lanka’s Sandya Eknelygoda joins twelve other women from across the globe to receive the U.S. Secretary of State’s International Women of Courage award for 2017. First ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 29 March, 2017 | Topics: Exclude, News, Press Releases
We are concerned about irregularities that impeded a free and fair vote in the Maldives Parliament on March 27. We call on the Government to restore faith in democratic processes by ensuring free and impartial proceedings in Parliament, free and fair local elections, and basic freedoms of press, assembly, and speech.
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 28 March, 2017 | Topics: Press Releases
Statement of the United States of America as delivered by William J. Mozdzierz Geneva, March 22, 2017 Thank you, Mr. High Commissioner, for your comprehensive report. The United States also appreciates the Government of Sri Lanka’s cooperation with your Office and relevant special procedure mandate holders. Since September 2015, Sri Lanka has taken important steps ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 23 March, 2017 | Topics: News, Speeches
Mapakadaweva, March 22: Students and teachers from Keselpotha Maha Vidyalaya in Uva Province joined representatives from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) yesterday to inaugurate a rainwater harvesting system at their school, providing clean drinking water year-round. Since 2012, USAID has partnered with local organizations to build more than 1,000 such systems in ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 22 March, 2017 | Topics: Exclude, News, Press Releases
The U.S. Embassy received information that there will be a demonstration today at approximately 03:30 pm. Approximately 200-300 protesters are expected to assemble at Fort Railway Station and proceed to Temple Trees. We remind U.S. citizens that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn violent. Please exercise caution if in the vicinity of any ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 20 March, 2017 | Topics: Exclude, Messages for U.S. Citizens, Security & Emergency Messages
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued Travel Guidance for Maldives regarding the risk of
Zika virus infection. Women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant should discuss their travel plans with their medical provider and consider postponing nonessential travel to Maldives. Men whose partners are pregnant or are considering pregnancy should talk ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 15 March, 2017 | Topics: Exclude, Messages for U.S. Citizens, Security & Emergency Messages
Support for Human Rights Council Resolution on Sri Lanka Mark C. Toner Acting Department Spokesperson Washington, DC March 15, 2017 On Monday, March 13 at the UN Human Rights Council the United States and other members of the Friends of Sri Lanka Core Group tabled a draft resolution on promoting reconciliation, accountability, and human rights ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 15 March, 2017 | Topics: News, Press Releases
There is a student protest march on Galle Road in Colombo 3 (Kollupitiya). Several groups coming from different directions are meeting in an unknown location near Galle Road. The Police have closed Kollupitiya Junction and part of Galle Road. The embassy recommends avoiding areas near any protest/parade.
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 8 March, 2017 | Topics: Exclude, Messages for U.S. Citizens, Security & Emergency Messages
“The State Department will coordinate with other federal agencies and implement these temporary restrictions in an orderly manner. Our embassies and consulates around the world will play an important role in making sure that our nation is as secure as it can be.” – Secretary of State Rex W. Tillerson, March 6, 2017
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 7 March, 2017 | Topics: Former U.S. Government Leaders, News | Tags: Rex Tillerson
HAMBANTOTA, March 6: The Embassy of the United States of America welcomes the U.S. Pacific Fleet and its transport ship USNS Fall River for the first-ever Pacific Partnership goodwill mission to Sri Lanka March 6-18. Working side-by-side with the Sri Lanka Navy and local organizations in the Hambantota region, this multinational effort includes free community ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 6 March, 2017 | Topics: Exclude, News, Press Releases
Colombo, February 28: A delegation from the
U.S. House of Representatives led by Congressman Bob Goodlatte, Chairman of the House Judiciary Committee, departed Colombo on February 25 following a two-day visit to Colombo. This was the second visit by members of the U.S. Congress to Sri Lanka in February 2017, demonstrating the bipartisan support in the legislative branch of ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 28 February, 2017 | Topics: Exclude, News, Press Releases
Colombo, February 23, 2017: Mo’ Mojo, an American zydeco band, concluded its five-day tour of Sri Lanka on February 16 with a high-energy, free, public concert for an appreciative crowd in Colombo. The U.S. Embassy-sponsored visit included public performances in Jaffna and Colombo; workshops for music students; and master classes for Sri Lankan musicians. “We ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 23 February, 2017 | Topics: Exclude, News, Press Releases | Tags: Music
On February 20, 2017, a bipartisan delegation from the U.S. House of Representatives arrived in Colombo for meetings as part of the House Democracy Partnership (HDP). During the visit, the delegation met with the President, Prime Minister, Foreign Minister, Speaker of the Parliament, numerous Parliament members, and civil society.
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 23 February, 2017 | Topics: Exclude, News
Colombo, February 20: A bipartisan delegation from the U.S. House of Representatives arrives in Colombo today for three days of meetings as part of the House Democracy Partnership (HDP). The HDP delegation is pleased to continue the important partnership begun with the signing of a Collaboration Agreement between the U.S. House of Representatives and the ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 20 February, 2017 | Topics: News, Press Releases
The U.S. Embassy Public Affairs Section (PAS) is pleased to announce that funding is available through the Embassy’s Public Diplomacy grants program for awards. Grants are intended for local representatives of civil society including non-governmental organizations, cultural institutions, universities, schools, and individuals. To receive funding, grants must support one of the following goals: Promote reconciliation, ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 14 February, 2017 | Topics: News
US visa policy in regards to Sri Lanka has not changed. Rumors to the contrary are false. For more information visit:
http://www.ustraveldocs.com/lk/lk-niv-visaapply.asp#apply Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 13 February, 2017 | Topics: Exclude, News
Colombo, February 9, 2017: Medical personnel from the U.S. Pacific Command partnered with the Maldives National Defense Force (MNDF) and Ministry of Health to provide emergency medical training in Addu Atoll, January 29 to February 2. The training increased the capacity of Maldivian first responders to save lives in the event of a medical emergency. ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 9 February, 2017 | Topics: News, Press Releases
The US Embassy has received information of a special traffic plan that will be implemented for the Perahara parade, beginning at 5 PM today. The parade will begin at the Gangaramaya temple, and travel along Sir James Pieris Mawatha, Sri Jinaratana Road, Utharananda Mawatha, and return to the temple through Navam Mawatha. It is expected ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 9 February, 2017 | Topics: Exclude, Messages for U.S. Citizens, Security & Emergency Messages
Remarks by Ambassador Bruce Wharton, Acting Under Secretary of State for Public Diplomacy and Public Affairs Sri Lanka National Day Reception February 6, 2017 Organization of American States, Washington, D.C. (as prepared for delivery) Thank you, Ambassador Kariyawasam, for that kind introduction, and for all the great work that you’ve done during your tenure as ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 7 February, 2017 | Topics: News, Speeches
This weekend the Colombo area will be faced with multiple road closures and delays due to the Independence Day parade and related activities. The following areas will be affected: The section of Galle Road extending from the Galle Face Roundabout to Old Parliament Roundabout will be closed to the public between 5 a.m. and 12 ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 2 February, 2017 | Topics: Exclude, Messages for U.S. Citizens, Security & Emergency Messages
On January 27, President Trump signed an Executive Order temporarily suspending entry into the United States of individuals from seven countries [Iraq, Syria, Sudan, Iran, Somalia, Libya, and Yemen] under section 212(f) of the Immigration and Nationality Act. Sri Lanka is not on the list of countries included in this Executive Order. Sri Lankans can continue ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 1 February, 2017 | Topics: Exclude, News
Colombo, January 27: Senior officials from the U.S. Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) visited Sri Lanka January 23-26 to discuss joint efforts to fight poverty and promote economic opportunity for all Sri Lankans. In December 2016, MCC selected Sri Lanka as eligible for an MCC compact – a five-year development grant linked to sustained reforms that ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 27 January, 2017 | Topics: Exclude, News, Press Releases
About 200-300 protesters are marching towards Temple Trees from Slave Island passing through James Peiris Mawatha and Gangaramaya. Police have blocked off several potential routes, including Galle Road south of the US Embassy. Traffic in the area is extremely heavy. As always, the Embassy recommends avoiding the areas near any protest/parade.
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 24 January, 2017 | Topics: Exclude, Messages for U.S. Citizens, Security & Emergency Messages
The USS Hopper (DDG 70) concluded its five-day port call to Colombo today as part of a visit to strengthen growing U.S.-Sri Lankan ties and express appreciation to the Sri Lankan Navy for its assistance during an emergency medical evacuation of a USS Hopper crewmember in September 2016. “Cooperation between our two countries’ naval forces ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 23 January, 2017 | Topics: Exclude, News, Press Releases
THE PRESIDENT: Chief Justice Roberts, President Carter, President Clinton, President Bush, President Obama, fellow Americans, and people of the world: thank you. We, the citizens of America, are now joined in a great national effort to rebuild our country and restore its promise for all of our people. Together, we will determine the course of ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 21 January, 2017 | Topics: Exclude, News, Speeches
The US Embassy has received information of a planned protest to take place in front of the US Embassy around noon today. We remind U.S. citizens that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn violent. Please exercise caution if in the vicinity of any demonstrations; avoid any gathering crowds that might be forming; monitor ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 20 January, 2017 | Topics: Exclude, Messages for U.S. Citizens, Security & Emergency Messages
The U.S. Embassy has received information that a protest march organized by the Inter-University Student Federation (IUSF) has begun in the vicinity of Town Hall. It is believed that 1,500 students will march towards Galle Road and attempt to march north to the Presidential Secretariat. Police riot squads have been positioned along the march route, and ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 19 January, 2017 | Topics: Exclude, Messages for U.S. Citizens, Security & Emergency Messages
The United States values its strong relationship with Sri Lanka and our bilateral partnership over the past 60 years. The Iranawila shortwave station, managed by an independent U.S. agency, the Broadcasting Board of Governors (BBG), is an example of this partnership. The shortwave station has transmitted Voice of America programs from Washington through shortwave radio ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 19 January, 2017 | Topics: News, Press Releases
The Legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King and Mahatma Gandhi on Non-Violent Teachings for Inter-Ethnic and Religious Harmony [As prepared] Good evening. It is such a pleasure to join you tonight to discuss the legacy of civil rights leaders Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Mahatma Gandhi. Thank you so much for participating in this ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 18 January, 2017 | Topics: News, Speeches
The United States Embassy’s Dr. Andrew Sisson, USAID Mission Director, joined State Minister Hon. Sudharshini Fernandopulle and MEP leader Hon. Dinesh Gunawardena last week on January 5 to launch an approximately Rs. 150 million ($1 million) program to provide safe disaster-resilient drinking water to local communities in Sri Lanka. This program expands upon several previous ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 9 January, 2017 | Topics: News, Press Releases
Beginner Social Media. This course is ideal for people with very limited knowledge about social media, and those wanting to get a basic understanding of what social media is all about. This course explains the fundamentals of social media + attempts to make sense of this arena. Areas we’ll cover include: What is social media? An ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 3 January, 2017 | Topics: Education, Exclude, News
The Embassy of the United States of America to Sri Lanka and Maldives launched its new Maldives website (
https://mv.usmission.gov ) yesterday, featuring a more mobile-friendly layout, with easy-to-access and more locally-relevant news and information. The new homepage will allow users to quickly find the latest information about U.S.-Maldives relations, and also information about business and ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 27 December, 2016 | Topics: News, Press Releases
Q:What are the key engagement points between the US and Sri Lanka? A:We have the Trade and Investment Framework (TIFA), which has given us a platform to discuss the entire waterfront of Sri Lanka’s economic and trade issues. I think we have a great way forward to develop a plan of action spanning trade between US ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 19 December, 2016 | Topics: News, Speeches | Tags: Reconciliation
At its quarterly meeting on December 13, 2016, the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) Board of Directors selected Sri Lanka, Burkina Faso and Tunisia for new MCC compacts – five-year grants – to encourage economic growth and reduce poverty. “MCC’s considerable support is a major boost to our six decades of development partnership with the people ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 15 December, 2016 | Topics: Press Releases
The “Red Lancers” of Patrol Squadron TEN (VP-10) departed Sri Lanka on Sunday, December 11, aboard a P-8A Poseidon aircraft from Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport in Hambantota. The Poseidon arrived in Colombo on December 4, where its sailors met with Sri Lanka military personnel to demonstrate the capabilities of the P-8A and exchanged expert advice. ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 13 December, 2016 | Topics: News, Press Releases
The world-renowned Battery Dance will conclude its tour of Sri Lanka with a gala “Drums and Dance” performance in collaboration with Chandana Wickramasinghe’s Dancer’s Guild and Asoka Wickramaratne’s Naadro at Bishop’s College on December 12 at 7:00 p.m. This public show completes Battery Dance’s nearly two weeks of programs featuring exchanges with top Sri Lankan ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 8 December, 2016 | Topics: Exclude, News, Press Releases | Tags: Cultural Diplomacy
During a September 27, 2016 trip to celebrate the conclusion of the
Ambassador’s Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP) grant for the historic Galle Fort area, Embassy officials paid tribute to their own diplomatic history by locating the final resting place of John Black, the first American Commercial Agent and Consul to Ceylon. Though Black’s office and other locations associated with him ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 7 December, 2016 | Topics: News
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE Office of the Spokesperson MEDIA NOTE In an important symbol of enduring friendship with Sri Lanka, U.S. Ambassador Atul Keshap and the Bureau of Overseas Buildings Operations (OBO) Principal Deputy Director William Moser, alongside local officials, broke ground today on the new U.S. Embassy in Colombo, Sri Lanka. The multi-building complex ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 6 December, 2016 | Topics: News, Press Releases
The U.S. Embassy received information that there will be a demonstration organized at approximately 10:00 a.m. The protesters are expected to assemble at Nelumpokuna Stadium and will proceed to the Presidential Secretariat. The protest is expected to last until 3:00 p.m. We remind U.S. citizens that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn violent. ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 2 December, 2016 | Topics: Exclude, Messages for U.S. Citizens, Security & Emergency Messages
From November 29-December 1, the U.S. Department of State, in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Commerce and the Sri Lanka Department of Commerce held three seminars on trade policy with more than 70 key decision makers and technical experts from various Sri Lankan ministries, agencies, research institutes, trade policy think tanks, and Chambers of Commerce. ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 2 December, 2016 | Topics: News, Press Releases | Tags: Business, Trade
Good evening, ladies and gentlemen. It’s great to see so many of you here, and it’s a real honor and pleasure to address you. First of all, greetings to my good friend Harsha de Silva. He’s a great guy. He hears me speak all the time, so he can pay no attention and take no ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 30 November, 2016 | Topics: News, Speeches | Tags: Business
Admiral Harry B. Harris, Jr., Commander of U.S. Pacific Command, visited Sri Lanka November 27-29 to attend the Galle Dialogue 2016 maritime security conference and meet with senior government and military leaders, including President Maithripala Sirisena and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe. “Oceans that once were physical and psychological barriers that kept us apart are now maritime superhighways that ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 29 November, 2016 | Topics: News, Press Releases
Thanks, Admiral Wijegunaratne for that kind introduction. In addition to being an expert in asymmetric naval warfare and special boat operations, the Admiral is also a well-known Rugby player – definitely a man you’d want on your side! So I’m pleased to call him friend. I’d also like to express my gratitude to the Sri ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 29 November, 2016 | Topics: News, Speeches | Tags: Defence, Galle Dialogue, Maritime
The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) launched today a Rs. 1.92 billion (USD$13 million) partnership with the Parliament of Sri Lanka to strengthen accountability and democratic governance in Sri Lanka. “This project broadens our support to the independent commissions, Ministries, and provincial and local levels of government,” said USAID Mission Director Andrew Sisson at ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 23 November, 2016 | Topics: News, Press Releases
The Embassy of the United States of America is awarding approximately LKR 9,000,000 (over $60,000) to eight civil society organizations as part of the Embassy’s annual Youth Empowerment Grants program. This initiative supports innovative, small-scale projects to nurture civil society groups helping Sri Lankan youth. “From raising environmental awareness to providing leadership training, promoting gender ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 21 November, 2016 | Topics: Press Releases
The number of Sri Lankan students studying at U.S. colleges and universities rose to 3080 students, an increase of 6.9 percent compared to the 2014-2015 academic year, according to the latest 2016 Open Doors Report. In total, the number of international students in U.S. colleges and universities surpassed one million for the first time during ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 17 November, 2016 | Topics: News, Press Releases | Tags: Education, Open Doors
The U.S. Embassy has received information that the Lotus Road Roundabout is temporarily closed due to a protest march. We remind U.S. citizens that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn violent. Please exercise caution if in the vicinity of any demonstrations; monitor media coverage of local events; and be aware of surroundings at ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 17 November, 2016 | Topics: Exclude, Messages for U.S. Citizens, Security & Emergency Messages
Top American engineering and science universities shared strategies for developing technology incubators and technology transfer offices with Sri Lankan university, government, and business leaders as part of the U.S. commitment to helping Sri Lanka develop a diversified, modern economy that can attract foreign and domestic investment. “Sri Lanka is well-positioned to become a technology hub ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 16 November, 2016 | Topics: News, Press Releases | Tags: Entrepreneurship
The U.S. Embassy has received information that a demonstration is planned for outside the Embassy at noon. We remind U.S. citizens that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn violent. Please exercise caution if in the vicinity of any demonstrations; monitor media coverage of local events; and be aware of surroundings at all times.
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 16 November, 2016 | Topics: Exclude, Messages for U.S. Citizens, News, Security & Emergency Messages
The U.S. Embassy Colombo is pleased to announce the call for abstracts for the 2017 Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP) large grants program. We invite you to work with the Public Affairs section at U.S. Embassy Colombo to develop and submit proposals for possible funding under this initiative. You are invited to send project ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 15 November, 2016 | Topics: Art & Culture, News
United States Ambassador to Sri Lanka Atul Keshap says the U.S. is committed to electoral democracy. The Ambassador also said the 2016 U.S. presidential election is a lot like Sri Lanka’s presidential election in January 2015, where people voted in a smooth transition of power. Ambassador Keshap joined News Radio in an exclusive interview. Q: ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 13 November, 2016 | Topics: Ambassador, News, Press Releases
Oval Office 12:36 P.M. EST PRESIDENT OBAMA: Well, I just had the opportunity to have an excellent conversation with President-elect Trump. It was wide-ranging. We talked about some of the organizational issues in setting up the White House. We talked about foreign policy. We talked about domestic policy. And as I said last night, my ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 11 November, 2016 | Topics: News
The Embassy of the United States is pleased to announce the call for proposals for the 2017 U.S. Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP) 2017 Small Grants Competition. The AFCP was established in 2001 in collaboration with the Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) to assist countries in preserving their cultural ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 9 November, 2016 | Topics: News | Tags: AFCP, Grants, NOFO
The U.S. Embassy has received information that Galle Road is currently closed north of the Galle Face roundabout due to a protest. We remind U.S. citizens that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn violent. Please exercise caution if in the vicinity of any demonstrations; monitor media coverage of local events; and be aware ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 7 November, 2016 | Topics: Exclude, Messages for U.S. Citizens, Security & Emergency Messages
The U.S. Embassy has received information regarding multiple demonstrations in Colombo throughout the day. Locations of demonstrations include Fort Railway Station, Galle Face, Horton Place and Thumulla Junction. We remind U.S. citizens that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn violent. Please exercise caution if in the vicinity of any demonstrations; monitor media coverage ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 2 November, 2016 | Topics: Exclude, Messages for U.S. Citizens, Security & Emergency Messages
The U.S. Embassy has received information regarding a demonstration underway at Olcott Mawatha. The west bound lane in front of the Fort railway station is closed. We remind U.S. citizens that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn violent. Please exercise caution if in the vicinity of any demonstrations; monitor media coverage of local ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 1 November, 2016 | Topics: Exclude, Messages for U.S. Citizens, Security & Emergency Messages
[As prepared] Rev. Dr. James Moos, Executive Minister, Co-Executive Global Ministries Rev. Dr. Deenabandhu Manchala, Area Executive for Southern Asia, Global Ministries Rev Devasagayam Devanesan, Chairperson Rt. Rev Bishop Duleep De Chickera, Former Anglican Bishop of Colombo Rev Asiri P. Perera, President of the Methodist Conference in Sri Lanka Mrs. Lakshani Fernando, General Secretary of the Ceylon Bible Society Rev A.B. Thevathas ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 31 October, 2016 | Topics: Ambassador, Exclude, News, Speeches
The U.S. Embassy has received information regarding a demonstration underway at Ceramic Junction Fort. Lotus Road is closed for traffic at this time. We remind U.S. citizens that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn violent. Please exercise caution if in the vicinity of any demonstrations; monitor media coverage of local events; and be ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 31 October, 2016 | Topics: Exclude, Messages for U.S. Citizens, Security & Emergency Messages
[As prepared] Remarks by Deputy Chief of Mission Robert B.Hilton On the Occasion of the 200th Anniversary of the American Ceylon Mission Dr. James Moos, Chairperson Reverend Devasagayam Devanesan, Bishop of Jaffna Right Reverend Dr. Justin Gnanapragasam, Father Jude Sutharshan, members of the clergy, lay leaders in the church, representatives of government and civil society, friends: It is a privilege to ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 29 October, 2016 | Topics: Exclude, News, Speeches
The U.S. Embassy has received information that there is a protest march underway at Viharamaha Devi Park, Colombo 7. Ward Place is partially blocked as a result. Current information is that route runs through Kannaggara Mawatha – Lipton Circus – Ward Place – University Grants Commission. We remind U.S. citizens that even demonstrations intended to ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 19 October, 2016 | Topics: Exclude, Messages for U.S. Citizens, Security & Emergency Messages
Ambassador Atul Keshap launched a Makerspace at the
American Center Colombo yesterday! Makerspaces provide young inventors, entrepreneurs, and educators with technology and resources to foster innovation and solve problems — visit the American Center to learn more.
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 18 October, 2016 | Topics: Exclude, News
The Embassy has received information about a protest of approximately 250 people at the Colombo Fort Railway Station moving towards Ceramic Junction. Expect police presence and heavy traffic congestion. U.S. citizens are advised to avoid the area during the demonstration. We remind U.S. citizens that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn violent. Please ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 12 October, 2016 | Topics: Exclude, Messages for U.S. Citizens, Security & Emergency Messages
Don’t wait, return your voted ballot right away! Remember U.S. embassies and consulates are not polling places; same-day in-person voting is not available outside the United States. The majority of states require voted ballots to reach local election officials by the close of polls on Tuesday, November 8. U.S. citizens who want to participate in ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 11 October, 2016 | Topics: Exclude, Messages for U.S. Citizens, News, Security & Emergency Messages
Hosted by the United Nations Counter-Terrorism Committee Executive Directorate (CTED) Organized by the Global Center on Cooperative Security With the support of the Governments of Australia and the United States of America Colombo, Sri Lanka October 3, 2016 State Secretary, High Commissioner, colleagues from the United Nations, conference participants, ladies and gentlemen, good morning. It ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 5 October, 2016 | Topics: News, Press Releases, Speeches | Tags: Human Rights, Security, Terrorism
The U.S. Embassy in Colombo is pleased to announce the start of the 2018 Diversity Visa Lottery Program, also known as the “Green Card” Lottery. The program will be open for online registration from October 4, 2016 to November 7, 2016. The Diversity Visa Lottery allows randomly selected applicants the opportunity to interview for an ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 5 October, 2016 | Topics: Exclude, News, Press Releases | Tags: Diversity, DV Lottery, Green Card
Chairman Fred Hochberg of the Export-Import Bank (EXIM) of the United States visited the Badulla site of the EXIM-funded water reservoir project yesterday. The approximately Rs. 9.4 billion ($64.9 million) project was funded in 2012 through a 12-year direct loan for this Integrated Water Supply System. The water-supply project will integrate new and rehabilitated treatment ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 4 October, 2016 | Topics: Exclude, News, Press Releases | Tags: Donation, EXIM Bank, Water
The Embassy of the United States in Sri Lanka launched its new website (
lk.usembassy.gov ) yesterday, featuring a more mobile-friendly layout, with easy-to-access and more locally-relevant news and information. The new homepage will allow users to quickly find answers to visa questions, U.S. citizen services, job opportunities, and business opportunities, as well as latest Embassy-related ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 30 September, 2016 | Topics: Exclude, News, Press Releases
Security Message for U.S. Citizens Zika Virus The U.S. Embassy informs U.S. citizens that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued Travel Guidance for Maldives regarding the risk of
Zika virus infection. Zika virus is
endemic . The risk of Zika to travelers, especially pregnant women, in endemic countries is likely lower (but not zero) ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 30 September, 2016 | Topics: Exclude, Messages for U.S. Citizens, Security & Emergency Messages
Honored guests, ladies, gentlemen. Good afternoon to you all. It is an honor to be invited to address such a distinguished gathering of women leaders and professionals. You are knocking down barriers for women every day in Sri Lanka – and reaching back to mentor young leaders. You are helping to build a stronger, more ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 29 September, 2016 | Topics: Ambassador, News, Speeches | Tags: Business, Entrepreneurs, Women
As Prepared: Good afternoon everyone and thank you to everyone who helped organize this event today. A special thanks to project co-directors Professor P.B. Mandawala and architect Prasanna Ratnayake, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Sri Jayewardenepura Sampath Amaratuge, friends from the Central Cultural Fund, Galle Maritime Archaeological Museum, Galle Heritage Foundation, and other distinguished guests. ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 27 September, 2016 | Topics: Exclude, News, Speeches | Tags: AFCP, Galle
As prepared Distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen, Good morning to you all. I consider it a great pleasure and honor to speak to such a distinguished audience, at this national conference on Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs). It has become evident that an important trend in economic and social development is taking place in countries around the ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 26 September, 2016 | Topics: Ambassador, News, Speeches | Tags: Public-Private Partnerships, USAID
Experts from the U.S. Pacific Command provided training for disaster response counterparts from Sri Lanka and Maldives on preparation and response to potential oil spill scenario that could severely impact local environment and tourism. Both civilian and military participants shared experiences from recent oil spill response efforts, with hands-on field exercises that included a live ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 21 September, 2016 | Topics: Exclude, News, Press Releases | Tags: Environment, Maldives, Oceana
Be an Active Voter by taking the necessary steps to vote in the 2016 U.S. elections and participating in Absentee Voting Week! In many states, the voter registration deadline for the November 2016 elections is October 10. For some voters this might mean their paper voter registration and absentee ballot request must reach their local ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 15 September, 2016 | Topics: Exclude, Messages for U.S. Citizens, Security & Emergency Messages
As part of continued U.S. support for the preservation of Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage, the Embassy of the United States of America has awarded a grant to the University of Peradeniya to document and preserve four traditional ritual dance forms and related crafts. “We are proud to partner with the University of Peradeniya in its ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 13 September, 2016 | Topics: Exclude, News, Press Releases | Tags: AFCP, Culture
Good Morning. I want thank the government of Sri Lanka, particularly minister of Development Strategies and International Trade, Honorable Mr Malik Samarawickrama for hosting this intersessional meeting today. As a relatively small island economy, Sri Lanka’s economy depends, to a considerable extent, on international external trade. As has been mentioned, the U.S. has been Sri ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 2 September, 2016 | Topics: Exclude, Speeches | Tags: TIFA, Trade
Thank you to the Minister of Development Strategies and International Trade Honorable Malik Samarawickrema. I would also like to thank my colleagues from the U.S. government here today. Ambassador Keshap – thank you for hosting us. Mike [Delaney] – as always, it is great to work with you. I’m excited to be here representing the ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 2 September, 2016 | Topics: Exclude, Speeches | Tags: TIFA, Trade
An inter-sessional meeting of the U.S.-Sri Lanka Trade and Investment Framework Agreement (TIFA) Council meeting was held on September 1, 2016 in Colombo, Sri Lanka. The meeting was Co-Chaired by Sri Lanka Minister of Development Strategies and International Trade Malik Samarawickrama and Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for South & Central Asia Michael J. Delaney, representing ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 1 September, 2016 | Topics: News, Press Releases | Tags: Business, TIFA, Trade
On behalf of the American delegation, I am delighted to speak at the outset of these Trade and Investment Facilitation Agreement (TIFA) Inter-sessional discussions, which are a sign of the rapid progress in expanding the already rich economic bonds between Sri Lanka and the United States. I want to thank the government of Sri Lanka ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 1 September, 2016 | Topics: Ambassador, Speeches
The multinational team led by U.S. Pacific Command concluded their week-long assistance program yesterday in Jaffna, providing general medical care for approximately 4000 people and renovating six schools that serve a total of 1100 students. “I want to thank all the members of Operation Pacific Angel for not just improving lives of Jaffna-area residents through ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 23 August, 2016 | Topics: Press Releases | Tags: USAID
On behalf of the American people, U.S. Ambassador Atul Keshap, representing the American people, donated medical supplies brought in by U.S. Pacific Command’s Operation Pacific Angel (PACANGEL) to Chief Minister of the Northern Province C.V. Wigneswaran and Opposition Leader R. Sampanthan who accepted the items on behalf of the people of Jaffna. Operation PACANGEL is ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 15 August, 2016 | Topics: News, Press Releases | Tags: Jaffna
Thank you so much for joining us on this beautiful rooftop on an absolutely gorgeous, gorgeous evening here in Jaffna. I have a few prepared remarks. The first thing I want to say – and I know I am going to get points off for pronunciation – is Vanakkam. And the second important thing I ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 15 August, 2016 | Topics: Ambassador, Speeches
As part of continued U.S. support for the preservation of Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage, the Embassy of the United States of America has awarded a grant to the University of Peradeniya to document and preserve four traditional ritual dance forms and related crafts. “We are proud to partner with the University of Peradeniya in its ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 14 August, 2016 | Topics: Education
The first American missionaries arrived in Jaffna in 1813, when the Rev. Samuel Newell founded the first American schools in Thellipalai. Those schools were the first of hundreds of schools and medical centers that provided for the people of northern Sri Lanka. Continuing this deep connection between our two nations, this week Jaffna is welcoming ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 12 August, 2016 | Topics: Exclude, Speeches | Tags: Jaffna, Op-ed
Full Remarks (As Delivered) Let me welcome all of the senior government officials, private sector representatives, ladies and gentlemen. On behalf of the Government and the people of the United States, I want to welcome all of you to the National Trade Portal and Single Window Best Practices Forum. I particularly want to thank Honorable ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 9 August, 2016 | Topics: Ambassador, Speeches | Tags: ASEAN, Business, Trade
As part of its commitment to support sustainable economic growth in Sri Lanka, the Embassy of the United States of America supports expert American speakers and ongoing programs to encourage innovation and entrepreneurship across the country. “Our continuous outreach to students, academics, and entrepreneurs will empower Sri Lankans to take advantage of the peace dividend ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 4 August, 2016 | Topics: Press Releases
The defamation bill that has been introduced in the Maldivian parliament risks being, if passed, a serious setback for freedom of speech in the Maldives. It will allow severe penalties to be imposed on those who wish to exercise their democratic rights and freedoms, as enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 31 July, 2016 | Topics: Exclude, Press Releases
Signaling a surge in U.S. development assistance for Sri Lanka, the newly-arrived Dr. Andrew Sisson official assumed duties yesterday as the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) Mission Director to Sri Lanka and Maldives. U.S. Ambassador Atul Keshap administered the oath of office in the presence of his wife Karen Levine and the entire USAID ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 28 July, 2016 | Topics: Press Releases | Tags: USAID
I am going to ask everyone to come a little bit closer and enjoy the sunset, to take a look and look at the beautiful hospitality that our Sri Lankan hosts have afforded us tonight. I want to recognize the honorable ministers who are in attendance. It is a real honor for me and for the ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 27 July, 2016 | Topics: Ambassador, Speeches
U.S. Marines embarked on the USS New Orleans joined experts from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) to exchange best practices on humanitarian assistance and disaster relief during two days of workshops and seminars with the Sri Lanka Navy in Colombo. Instructors shared U.S. experiences assisting victims of natural disasters in the United ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 27 July, 2016 | Topics: Press Releases
July 26, 2016 The U.S. Embassy has received information of a planned protest march, scheduled to start at approximately 11:00 am at the Ayurveda Junction, Rajagiriya and then march to the Ministry of Finance on Lotus Road, Colombo 1. Please avoid the areas of the protest march and expect heavy police presence and traffic congestion. ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 26 July, 2016 | Topics: Security & Emergency Messages | Tags: Demonstration Notices
The Embassy of the United States is pleased to announce the call for abstracts and proposals for the 2016 Ambassador’s Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP) Large Grants program. We invite you to work with the Public Affairs section at U.S. Embassy Colombo to develop and submit proposals for possible funding under this initiative. We request ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 17 July, 2016 | Topics: News
[As delivered] Good evening. I have not been keeping track how often I’ve been coming to Sri Lanka until I saw the papers when I landed, which noted this is my sixth visit in twenty months. It is wonderful to be back here in Colombo, and wonderful to see so many distinguished friends, Ministers, and ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 13 July, 2016 | Topics: Speeches | Tags: Business, Economic, Trade
July 13, 2016 Good evening. It is such a pleasure to be with all of you here today. Robert, thank you. I don’t know if you all know, but Robert just took up his charge as Deputy Chief of Mission a little over a week ago. Ambassador Keshap has such tremendous confidence in him that ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 13 July, 2016 | Topics: Speeches
July 13, 2016 The U.S. Embassy has received information of a planned protest march starting between 10:30 am and 12:00 noon from the University of Colombo to the University Grants Commission, Colombo 7. About 1,500 individuals are expected to attend the protest march. Please avoid the areas of the protest march and expect heavy police ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 13 July, 2016 | Topics: Security & Emergency Messages | Tags: Demonstration Notices
July 12, 2016
Sinhala Translation (PDF 776 KB)
Tamil Translation (PDF 246 KB) Assistant Secretary Nisha Biswal Thank you Mr. Minister for the very warm and gracious welcome, and also for the very productive meeting that we’ve had today. This visit and this meeting builds on a tremendous trajectory of partnership between our two countries and enumerated some of the key ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 12 July, 2016 | Topics: Speeches
Assistant Secretary of State for Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor Tom Malinowski will visit Sri Lanka and Cambodia from July 12 to 20, where he will engage with government officials and local civil society representatives. In Sri Lanka, Assistant Secretary Malinowski will focus on Sri Lanka’s continued progress in meeting the commitments made during last ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 10 July, 2016 | Topics: Press Releases
Media Note Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs Nisha Desai Biswal will travel to Bangladesh and Sri Lanka this week. Deputy Assistant Secretary for South Asia Manpreet Singh Anand will accompany her. While in Dhaka, the Assistant Secretary will meet with government officials to discuss issues of shared concern and offer ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 9 July, 2016 | Topics: Press Releases
July 4, 2016 Each year on July 4th, Americans all around the world gather with friends and family to celebrate our Independence Day, honoring the date in 1776 when our country’s founders gathered in Philadelphia to imagine a self-governing democracy where all people, having been created equal, would be entitled to life and liberty, and ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 4 July, 2016 | Topics: Speeches
June 28, 2016
Sinhala Translation (PDF 137 KB)
Tamil Translation (PDF 90.8 KB) [As prepared] Good evening, ladies and gentlemen. I’m delighted to join you for the 177th Annual General Meeting of the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce, the country’s oldest and most influential business organization. It is my great honor to be chosen as your chief guest. I would like to ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 28 June, 2016 | Topics: Speeches | Tags: Business, Economy
Sinhala Translation (PDF 135 KB)
Tamil Translation (PDF 181 KB) U.S. Ambassador Atul Keshap hosted leaders from the Sri Lankan Muslim community, government officials, civil society activists, and media representatives for an Iftar last night in Colombo. This is one of three U.S. Embassy-hosted Iftars in Sri Lanka during the month of Ramadan this year, including one in Jaffna and another ...
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 28 June, 2016 | Topics: Press Releases
June 27, 2016 Honorable Ministers, Distinguished Guests, Members of the Diplomatic Corps, Friends, AssalaamuAlekhum. I would like to welcome all of you this evening for this Iftar dinner to break your fasts during this holy month of Ramadan. Americans have been participating in Iftar meals for a long time. Over 200 years ago, one of ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 27 June, 2016 | Topics: Speeches
June 27, 2016
Sinhala Translation (PDF 733 KB)
Tamil Translation (PDF 504 KB) The U.S. Government recently concluded a five-day workshop in Colombo from June 13-17 for members of the Sri Lankan Ports Authority and Customs, Police, Navy, and Coast Guard to provide training on eliminating the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction (WMD). Led by U.S. military experts from the ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 27 June, 2016 | Topics: Press Releases
June 27, 2016 July 4th Voting Message Celebrate democracy this 4th of July by taking the necessary steps to vote in the 2016 U.S. elections! In order to vote in the November 2016 elections, all overseas U.S. citizens need to have completed a
Federal Post Card Application (FPCA) in 2016. Whether you are a first-time voter or have already received ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 27 June, 2016 | Topics: Messages for U.S. Citizens, Security & Emergency Messages
June 22, 2016 Ladies and gentlemen, assalaamu alaykum and Ramadan Mubarak. On behalf of the women and men of the U.S. Embassy, including the many members of the Embassy who are here today, it is an honor to join so many friends and distinguished guests in Malé to celebrate tonight’s breaking of the fast. I extend my ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 22 June, 2016 | Topics: Speeches
June 17, 2016
Sinhala Translation (PDF 745 KB)
Tamil Translation (PDF 567 KB) Sri Lankan fashion designer Yasisurie Kiribandara, founder of Yasisurie Pvt. Ltd, has been selected by the U.S. Embassy to join four other entrepreneurs from Sri Lanka to participate in the Global Entrepreneurship Summit 2016 at Stanford University in California next week. The summit will serve as a forum ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 17 June, 2016 | Topics: Press Releases
June 15, 2016 The U.S. Embassy has received information regarding an ongoing protest in the Fort area. Police have deployed tear gas to disperse protesters and roads in the area are closed off. Please avoid the areas of demonstration and expect heavy police presence and traffic congestion. We remind U.S. citizens that even demonstrations intended ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 15 June, 2016 | Topics: Security & Emergency Messages | Tags: Demonstration Notice
June 9, 2016 The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) will host a webinar “Foreign Earned Income for U.S. Overseas Taxpayers” on June 29, 2016, 2:00-3:00 p.m. EDT. Posts should share this information with their local U.S. citizen communities and add the link to their web pages. To register and attend this webinar, use the
Foreign Earned Income for U.S. Overseas Taxpayers or
https://www.webcaster4.com/Webcast/Page/445/15416 webinar ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 9 June, 2016 | Topics: Security & Emergency Messages
June 8, 2016 The U.S. Embassy has received information regarding a planned march this morning from Independence Square to Kolpity Junction, then up to Galle Face Green passing the American Embassy and the American Center. Please avoid the areas of demonstrations and expect heavy police presence and traffic congestion. We remind U.S. citizens that even ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 8 June, 2016 | Topics: Security & Emergency Messages | Tags: Demonstration Notice
Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) – American Corner Kandy June 7, 2016 The American Center welcomes grant applications for extended training courses and programs at the American Corner in Kandy linking with other areas of the country. The programs will develop interactive training classes to develop skills in Youth Leadership, Public Speaking, English Education, STEM ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 7 June, 2016 | Topics: News
By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 24 May, 2016 | Topics: Press Releases
May 22, 2016
Sinhala Translation (PDF 491 KB)
Tamil Translation (PDF 67.0 KB) The United States Government will provide an additional 36 million Sri Lankan Rupees (250,000 U.S. dollars) to support flood relief efforts in Sri Lanka. This is in addition to the previously announced 7.2 million Sri Lankan Rupees (50,000 U.S. dollars) that is supporting humanitarian assistance activities in the ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 22 May, 2016 | Topics: Press Releases
June 21, 2016
Sinhala Translation (PDF 959 KB)
Tamil Translation (PDF 468 KB) U.S. Ambassador Atul Keshap and a U.S. Embassy team recently visited the Hambantota region to meet local officials and business executives. During the June 20-21 visit, Ambassador Keshap spoke with leaders from the Hambantota Chamber of Commerce, which was initially established with support from the United States Agency ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 21 May, 2016 | Topics: Press Releases
May 20, 2016
Sinhala Translation (PDF 246 KB)
Tamil Translation (PDF 274 KB) To meet the urgent needs of victims of the ongoing landslides and flooding in various parts of Sri Lanka, the United States Government has provided 7.2 million Sri Lankan Rupees (50,000 U.S. dollars) for emergency humanitarian assistance. The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) is working closely ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 20 May, 2016 | Topics: Press Releases
May 20, 2016
Sinhala Translation (PDF 566 KB)
Tamil Translation (PDF 82.6 KB) In view of the serious flooding in western Sri Lanka, the United States Government has provided 7.2 million Sri Lankan Rupees ($50,000 U.S. dollars) for immediate disaster assistance for non-food items such as blankets, mattresses, clothing and hygiene kits. In addition, the United States Embassy in Colombo, in ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 20 May, 2016 | Topics: Press Releases
May 20, 2016 Ongoing flood warnings have been issued to some parts of Sri Lanka along with landslide warnings in the districts of Kurunegala, Monaragala, Badulla, Ratnapura, Kandy, Kegalle and Nuwara Eliya. U.S. citizens residing in or travelling around Sri Lanka should monitor local news and reports from the Sri Lanka Disaster Management Centre (
http://www.dmc.gov.lk/index_english.htm ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 20 May, 2016 | Topics: Security & Emergency Messages
May 19, 2016 First, let me express my condolences on behalf of the men and women of the U.S. Embassy to the families affected by the recent landslides and flooding in various parts of Sri Lanka. I want to assure you we stand in solidarity with the Government of Sri Lanka and the victims as ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 19 May, 2016 | Topics: Speeches
May 18, 2016
Sinhala Translation (PDF 217 KB)
Tamil Translation (PDF 193 KB) On behalf of the men and women of the Embassy of the United States of America, I extend our deepest condolences to the Government of Sri Lanka and the families affected by the recent landslides and flooding in various parts of the Island. We stand in solidarity with ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 18 May, 2016 | Topics: Press Releases
May 16, 2016, Water’s Edge Hotel, Colombo
Sinhala Translation (PDF 1.1 MB)
Tamil Translation (PDF 64.1 KB) Honorable Minister, Members of Parliament, ladies and gentlemen, It is an honor to address this gathering as you discuss the creation of a Right to Information bill designed to enhance citizens’ access to transparency and insight about their government. Any democracy requires that government ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 16 May, 2016 | Topics: Speeches
“Women Beyond Femininity” The American Center in Colombo is currently holding an exhibition of paintings by Alumni of Visual Arts Faculty. Entrance is free!
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 16 May, 2016 | Topics: Art & Culture
May 15, 2016
Sinhala Translation (PDF 563 KB)
Tamil Translation (PDF 44.0 KB) Major General Steven R. Rudder, the Director of Strategic Planning and Policy for U.S. Pacific Command, concluded his three-day visit to Sri Lanka from May 11-13. This is the first visit by a senior leader from Pacific Command Headquarters to Sri Lanka, and follows the recent port-call by ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 15 May, 2016 | Topics: Press Releases
May 11, 2016 U.S. Permanent Representative to the United Nations Ambassador Samantha Power met with former Sri Lankan President Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga, currently Chairperson of Sri Lanka’s Office of National Unity Reconciliation (ONUR), and Mano Tittawella, Secretary-General for Coordinating Reconciliation Mechanisms, on May 11, 2016, at the Sri Lankan Mission to the United Nations in ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 11 May, 2016 | Topics: Press Releases
April 28, 2016 There were two reasons that I flew down from New York at the crack of dawn this morning to join you. The first is that I fell in love with Sri Lankan food during my visits, and I was told there were going to be string hoppers, curries, and pol sambol here, ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 28 April, 2016 | Topics: Speeches
April 26, 2016
Sinhala translation (PDF 165 KB)
Tamil translation (PDF 225 KB) Commander of U.S. Special Operations Command, Pacific (SOCPAC) Rear Admiral Colin J. Kilrain concluded his four-day visit to both the Maldives and Sri Lanka, from April 20-23. During his visit, RADM Kilrain discussed the future role both the Maldives and Sri Lankan security forces could play in humanitarian ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 26 April, 2016 | Topics: Press Releases
April 11, 2016
Sinhala translation (PDF 109 KB)
Tamil translation (PDF 222 KB) The U.S. Embassy in Colombo today launched the Interview Waiver Program (IWP) for eligible visa applicants. The program allows eligible applicants to renew their visas without appearing for a personal interview. IWP may be used only by applicants who have previously traveled to the United States and are ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 11 April, 2016 | Topics: Press Releases
April 6, 2016
Dhivehi translation (PDF 109 KB) Ladies and gentlemen, Assalaam Alaikum. I would like to extend from the bottom of my heart my warm greetings to all of you who have joined us here tonight from all parts of Maldivian society, and I also want to recognize the women and men from the United States Embassy ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 6 April, 2016 | Topics: Speeches
April 6, 2016
Sinhala translation (PDF 147 KB)
Tamil translation (PDF 249 KB) Special Coordinator for the U.S. Department of State Office of Global Criminal Justice Todd Buchwald and Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs Manpreet Anand (DAS) concluded a several-day visit to Sri Lanka, during which they met with government and political leaders and civil ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 6 April, 2016 | Topics: Press Releases
March 29, 2016, Water’s Edge, Colombo
Sinhala translation (PDF 479 KB)
Tamil translation (PDF 27.8 KB) Thank you so very much to all of you for attending. Honorable and respected Prime Minister, Honorable and respected Speaker of Parliament, Mr. Secretary-General, distinguished and Honorable Ministers and Members of Parliament, resource persons; distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen. I wish you a very hearty ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 29 March, 2016 | Topics: Speeches
March 28,2016
Sinhala translation (PDF 114 KB)
Tamil translation (PDF 27.8 KB) Admiral Aucoin, thank you very much for your kind remarks and thank you very much for bringing this ship and her crew here. It is a delight to have you all here. I’m going to be very brief. First of all, in the South Asian context, rain is always ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 28 March, 2016 | Topics: Speeches
March 24, 2016
Sinhala Translation (PDF 322 KB)
Tamil Translation (PDF 118 KB) The U.S. 7th Fleet flagship USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19) will arrive in Colombo for a port call March 26, the first visit by a U.S. Navy ship since October 2011. The visit builds upon last month’s Partnership Dialogue in Washington D.C., where both nations pledged to strengthen ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 24 March, 2016 | Topics: Press Releases
March 17, 2016 The U.S. Embassy has received information regarding a demonstration to be held at Hyde Park in Colombo 2 starting at 3:00 pm. Protesters are expected to start gathering at 2:00 p.m. at two locations, the first near Ananda Coomarswamy Mawatha, Colombo 7 and the second near Zahira College, Maradana. Please avoid the ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 17 March, 2016 | Topics: Security & Emergency Messages | Tags: Demonstration Notice
March 15, 2016 The Embassy has received information about two protests underway in Colombo. The Inter University Student Federation (IUSF) has organized a protest march from Kelaniya University and is headed towards the President Secretarial office. The United National Party (UNP) demonstration started at Victoria Park and is headed towards Hyde Park. Traffic congestion is ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 15 March, 2016 | Topics: Security & Emergency Messages | Tags: Demonstration Notice
March 14, 2016
Sinhala translation (PDF 208 KB)
Tamil translation (PDF 419 KB) Members of Parliament on the Committee on Public Accounts (COPA) and the Committee on Public Enterprise (COPE) joined officials from the Ministry of Finance and the Auditor General’s Department for a March 5 conference sponsored by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) to help the Government of Sri ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 14 March, 2016 | Topics: Press Releases
March 10, 2016
Sinhala translation (PDF 197 KB)
Tamil translation (PDF 191 KB) On behalf of the people of the United States, I extend my heartfelt condolences to the Government and the people of Sri Lanka on the passing away of the Chief Prelate of the Asgiriya Chapter of the Siyam Maha Nikaya, Most Venerable Galagama Sri Aththadassi Thero. I was ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 10 March, 2016 | Topics: Press Releases
March 10, 2016
Sinhala translation (PDF 155 KB)
Tamil translation (PDF 295 KB) Representatives from the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC), an independent U.S. development agency, are visiting Sri Lanka this week to begin a partnership to overcome key challenges to economic growth and poverty reduction. The delegation met with President Maithripala Sirisena, Prime Minister Wickremesinghe, and other top cabinet ministers, along ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 10 March, 2016 | Topics: Press Releases
March 8, 2016
Sinhala Translation (PDF 78.8 KB)
Tamil Translation (PDF 494 KB) International Women’s Day began as an annual tradition more than 100 years ago initially as a way to honor women’s role in labor, advocate for political rights, and end discrimination in the workplace. Every year on March 8, people around the world reflect on the progress women have ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 8 March, 2016 | Topics: Speeches
February 29, 2016 The following statement was released by the Governments of Sri Lanka and the United States of America after the first annual U.S. – Sri Lanka Partnership Dialogue held on February 26, 2016 in Washington, D.C. Begin Text: Sharing a commitment to democracy, rule of law, and shared prosperity, the United States and ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 29 February, 2016 | Topics: Press Releases
February 29, 2016
Sinhala translation (PDF, 144 kb)
Tamil translation (PDF, 204 kb) Senior representatives from the Embassy of the United States of America provided new school facilities and educational opportunities across the Northern Province last week, a sign of continued U.S. commitment to the social welfare of all of the people of Sri Lanka. Led by Chargé d’Affaires ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 29 February, 2016 | Topics: Press Releases
Ambassador Atul Keshap joined Under Secretary of State Tom Shannon and Assistant Secretary Nisha Biswal at the inaugural U.S.-Sri Lanka Partnership Dialogue in Washington D.C. Ambassador Shannon told the Sri Lankan delegation led by Foreign Minister Mangala Samaraweera the U.S. looks forward to broadening and strengthening its relationship with Sri Lanka on the basis of ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 27 February, 2016 | Topics: News
February 25, 2016 SECRETARY KERRY: I’m very happy to welcome my friend Mangala Samaraweera here, the foreign minister of Sri Lanka. I had wonderful occasion to visit with him in Sri Lanka, and I want to congratulate the Government of Sri Lanka for their very impressive continuing steps towards reconciliation. Their efforts to try to ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 25 February, 2016 | Topics: Speeches
February 23, 2016
Sinhala translation (PDF, 64 kb)
Tamil translation (PDF, 104 kb) Representatives from the Embassy of the United States of America and senior Sri Lankan officials presided at the February 18 signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between dairy farmers, CIC Dairies, and Milk Industries of Lanka (Pvt.) Ltd. The MoU will help dairy farmers in Polonnaruwa ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 23 February, 2016 | Topics: Press Releases
February 17, 2016
Sinhala Translation (PDF 330 KB)
Tamil Translation (PDF 413 KB) Legal experts from the U.S. Department of Commerce and U.S. Customs and Border Protection collaborated with 20 senior officials from Sri Lanka Customs in Colombo last week on reforming customs procedures to enhance trade. The effort seeks to improve efficiency and transparency for businesses, allowing Sri Lanka to ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 17 February, 2016 | Topics: Press Releases
February 16, 2016 The Embassy has received information of an ongoing protest which started at the Fort Railway Station, following which police attempted to disperse the protest with tear gas at the Lotus Roundabout. However, protesters may continue to march to the Prime Minister’s office on Flower Road, Colombo 7, or Temple Trees, Colombo 3. ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 16 February, 2016 | Topics: Security & Emergency Messages | Tags: Demonstration Notice
February 11, 2016
Sinhala translation (PDF 67.7 KB)
Tamil translation (PDF 38.9 KB) Assalaamu alaykum to all of you. It is a great honor and privilege for me to come here to learn not only about the Grand Mosque, but also to learn about the 1200 years of history, of rich history of Islam in Sri Lanka. Islam is a religion ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 11 February, 2016 | Topics: Speeches
February 11, 2016 The Embassy has received reports of about 500 people currently gathering at the Sasakawa Building, Colombo 3, who are expected to march along Galle Road to the Presidential Secretariat on Galle Face. Expect police presence and heavy traffic congestion. U.S. citizens are advised to avoid the areas during the demonstration. We remind ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 11 February, 2016 | Topics: Security & Emergency Messages | Tags: Demonstration Notice
February 4, 2016 Thank you, Ambassador Kariyawasam, for that kind introduction, and the honor of your invitation. And I must say that I’m incredibly excited to visit your beautiful country later this month and see the progress already made on our new embassy complex. 68 years ago today, Sri Lanka found itself in good company ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 4 February, 2016 | Topics: Speeches
February 3, 2016 The Embassy has received reports of a planned protest march this afternoon at 3:00 p.m., starting near Town Hall and moving to the Presidential Secretariat. Expect police presence and heavy traffic congestion. U.S. citizens are advised to avoid the area during the protest march.We remind U.S. citizens that even demonstrations intended to ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 3 February, 2016 | Topics: Security & Emergency Messages | Tags: Demonstration Notice
February 2, 2016
Sinhala translation (PDF 744 KB)
Tamil translation (PDF 89.9 KB) On February 1, Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for South Asia Michael J. Delaney visited Colombo and met with government, trade, and business officials ahead of the upcoming Trade and Investment Framework Agreement (TIFA) talks in Washington. Delaney met with Minister of Development Strategy & International Trade Malik Samarawickrema ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 2 February, 2016 | Topics: Press Releases
February 1, 2016
Sinhala Translation (PDF 121 KB)
Tamil Translation (PDF 291 KB) On January 28-29, 50 Research Assistants from the Sri Lankan Parliament participated in a U.S.-supported workshop to help Members of Parliament better hear and address the concerns of their constituencies. This training, conducted in both Sinhala and Tamil, is part of the approximately 73 million LKR ($509,000) project ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 1 February, 2016 | Topics: Press Releases
January 26, 2016
Sinhala translation (PDF 69.4 KB)
Tamil translation (PDF 292 KB) The Embassy of the United States of America officially opened the newly renovated American Corner at the D.S. Senanayake Memorial Public Library in Kandy January 26. Senior U.S. Department of State official Macon Phillips, Coordinator for the Bureau of International Information Programs (IIP), joined the Mayor of Kandy ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 26 January, 2016 | Topics: Press Releases
December 21, 2015 The Embassy of the United States of America launched the construction of a new water management system last week in Hinnavaru, Lhaviyani Atoll. When completed, the system will help ensure safe and high-quality drinking water for 4,700 local islanders. Reed Aeshliman, Acting Mission Director of the United States Agency for International Development ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 21 December, 2015 | Topics: Press Releases
December 21, 2015
Sinhala Translation (PDF 148 KB)
Tamil Translation (PDF 259 KB) U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense (DASD) for South and Southeast Asia Dr. Amy Searight concluded her three-day visit to Sri Lanka December 17-19. During her visit, DASD Searight examined the future role Sri Lankan security forces could play in humanitarian assistance, responding to natural disasters, and increased ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 21 December, 2015 | Topics: Press Releases
December 18, 2015
Read in Sinhala (PDF 230 KB)
Read in Tamil (PDF 83.7 KB) U.S. Ambassador Atul Keshap met today with Minister of Megapolis and Western Development Champika Ranawaka. During the meeting, Ambassador Keshap and Minister Ranawaka discussed future infrastructure projects essential to Sri Lanka’s prosperity, energy production and environmental protection, and progress on the development of a new constitution. Ambassador Keshap ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 18 December, 2015 | Topics: Press Releases
December 18, 2015 WASHINGTON, D.C., Dec. 17 — The Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) Board of Directors held its quarterly meeting on Dec. 16, 2015. The Board approved three countries as eligible for compacts and two countries as eligible for threshold programs. Three of the five countries are new partners for MCC and all have worked ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 18 December, 2015 | Topics: Press Releases
December 18, 2015
Sinhala Translation (PDF 418 KB)
Tamil Translation (PDF 304 KB) Counselor of the U.S. Department of State Tom Shannon departed Sri Lanka early yesterday, concluding a three-day visit highlighted by his announcement of the first U.S.-Sri Lanka Partnership Dialogue that will take place in February 2016 in Washington, D.C. During his visit, Ambassador Shannon met with, among others, ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 18 December, 2015 | Topics: Press Releases
December 17, 2015 The Embassy has received reports of about 1000 people currently gathering at the Lipton Circus, near Town Hall. The group is expected to march to Temple Trees, Colombo 3 via Dharmapala Mawatha or to the Presidential Secretariat, Colombo 1 via Slave Island. Expect police presence and heavy traffic congestion. U.S. citizens are ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 17 December, 2015 | Topics: Security & Emergency Messages | Tags: Demonstration Notice
December 16, 2015
Sinhala translation (PDF 97.2 KB)
Tamil translation (PDF 95.5 KB) Good morning, and to all of you Ayubowan, Vanakkam. Thank you for being here. It’s a tremendous honor and a great pleasure to be here today. Thank you, Mr. Minister, for your very kind introduction. To be at this respected institute, named in honor of the late and ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 16 December, 2015 | Topics: Speeches
December 15, 2015
Sinhala translation (PDF 904 KB)
Tamil translation (PDF 62.1 KB) I want to acknowledge the Eastern Province Governor, Ambassador Kariyawasm, the Opposition Leader, and the Chief Minister. This is my first visit to Sri Lanka and my first visit to South Asia. We arrived last evening. This morning I had the great pleasure of looking out to a ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 15 December, 2015 | Topics: Speeches
December 14, 2015
Sinhala Translation (PDF 904 KB)
Tamil Translation (PDF 42.5 KB) I am happy to be in Sri Lanka for my first visit during this time of progress and opportunity. Sri Lanka is moving forward, and its leaders and people are now working together to usher in reforms to put the country on the long-term path to peace, stability, ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 14 December, 2015 | Topics: Speeches
MEDIA NOTE December 10, 2015 Counselor Thomas Shannon Travel to Bangladesh and Sri Lanka Ambassador Thomas Shannon, Counselor of the Department of State, will travel to Bangladesh December 13-14and Sri Lanka December 14-16. He will be accompanied by Assistant Secretary for South and Central Asian Affairs Nisha Desai Biswal in Bangladesh and Deputy Assistant Secretary for South ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 10 December, 2015 | Topics: Press Releases
December 9, 2015 The Embassy has received reports of an ongoing protest of about 100 persons gathering at the Public Library in Colombo 7. They are expected to march to the Ministry of Power and Energy on Flower Road (Sir Ernest De Silva Mawatha), Colombo 7, and hold a demonstration at that location. A second ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 9 December, 2015 | Topics: Security & Emergency Messages | Tags: Demonstration Notice
November 25, 2015
Read in Sinhala (PDF 276 KB)
Read in Tamil (PDF 181 KB) The Embassy of the United States of America launched the Youth Farmer Development program in Trincomalee last week through a partnership with the Ministry of Provincial Agriculture and Animal Production and Development (Eastern Province), the Office of the Government Agent, CIC Agribusiness, and Hatton National Bank. Managed by ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 25 November, 2015 | Topics: Press Releases
November 24, 2015 The Embassy has received reports of an ongoing protest gathering at Bambalapitiya, Colombo 4. The protesters are expected to march to the Indian High Commission on Galle Road, Colombo 3. Expect police presence and heavy traffic congestion. U.S. citizens are advised to avoid the areas during the demonstration. We remind U.S. citizens ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 24 November, 2015 | Topics: Security & Emergency Messages | Tags: Demonstration Notice
November 23, 2015 Ambassador Power met with Sri Lankan Opposition Leader R. Sampanthan on November 23, 2015, in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Ambassador Power congratulated Mr. Sampanthan on his historic appointment as opposition leader and praised his engagement with the Sirisena administration to address long-standing aspirations of Tamil communities, including demilitarization of the north and east, ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 23 November, 2015 | Topics: Speeches
November 23, 2015
Sinhala translation (PDF 151 KB)
Tamil translation (PDF 134 KB) AMBASSADOR POWER: Thank you so much, all of you, for being here. Thank you, Dharisha. And let me say the – there is a mutual admiration society that we can create, because, as all of you know, Dharisha is a very distinguished journalist. And what’s most impressive about ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 23 November, 2015 | Topics: Speeches
November 23, 2015 Ambassador Power met with Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe on November 23, 2015, in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Ambassador Power congratulated Prime Minister Wickremesinghe on reforms initiated so far to restore the pillars of democracy, release prisoners, resettle displaced persons, create an accountability mechanism for past abuses, and consult broadly across society ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 23 November, 2015 | Topics: Speeches
November 23, 2015 Ambassador Power met with Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena on November 23, 2015, in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Ambassador Power relayed President Obama’s warm greetings and thanked President Sirisena for his early steps to restore the key pillars of democracy, to reestablish good governance in support of economic growth, and to foster reconciliation ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 23 November, 2015 | Topics: Speeches
November 22, 2015
Sinhala translation (PDF 67.3 KB)
Tamil translation (PDF 133 KB) Vanakkam! Thank you, Minister Gurukularaja for that kind introduction. Thank you, Principal Ashraf, for inviting me to visit your marvellous College. And thank you Chief Minister Wigneswaram for finding the time to join us today. Thanks to all of you for having me! It is an honor and really a wonderful ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 22 November, 2015 | Topics: Speeches
November 22, 2015 Hello, everybody. I’m also a former journalist. I represent a president in President Obama who believes in every fiber of his being of the importance of the press holding government accountable. And every one of you who has any role in putting this paper out day, after day, after day is playing ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 22 November, 2015 | Topics: Speeches
November 21, 2015
Sinhala translation (PDF 1.2 MB)
Tamil translation (PDF 91.5 KB) Mr. Minister, it’s wonderful to be here in Sri Lanka. I just touched down a few hours ago and I already feel immersed in the warmth and hospitality of your dynamic country – your dynamic and welcoming people. You reminded me in our meeting that we only met ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 21 November, 2015 | Topics: Speeches
November 17, 2015 Wow look at this crowd. Fantastic! Ayubowan! Vanakkam! Nice to see everybody! Good morning everybody and thank you very much to all of you for coming this morning. I think it is pretty clear from the fantastic weather we have outside after about four or five days of rain that this proves ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 17 November, 2015 | Topics: Speeches
November 17, 2015
Sinhala Translation (pdf, 267 kb)
Tamil Translation (pdf, 163 kb) Top American companies from a wide variety of sectors are showcasing their products, technologies, and services at U.S. Trade Show 2015 from November 17-18 at the Hotel Galadari in a free event open to the public. U.S. Ambassador Atul Keshap and chief guest, Honorable Minister of ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 17 November, 2015 | Topics: Press Releases
November 14, 2015 Honorable Minister Sagala Ratnayaka, Your Excellency the Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, High Commissioner of South Africa Geoff Doidge and Mrs. Doidge, General and Mrs. Banta, American Embassy colleagues and family members, members of the Colombo American community, and all distinguished guests, I bid you all a very good evening. I am ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 14 November, 2015 | Topics: Speeches
November 8, 2015
Sinhala Transalation (PDF 173 KB)
Tamil Translation (PDF 61.6 KB) On behalf of the men and women of the Embassy of the United States of America, I extend condolences to the people and Government of Sri Lanka on the passing of the Venerable Madhuluwawe Sobitha Thero. The late Thero was respected for his efforts to nurture and protect ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 8 November, 2015 | Topics: Press Releases
The United States is deeply concerned with recent events in Maldives, including today’s announcement of a state of emergency that curtails vital civil liberties and human rights and fundamental freedoms, including the freedom of peaceful assembly, the freedom of movement, and safeguards against arbitrary detention and arbitrary and unlawful interference with one’s privacy. The United ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 4 November, 2015 | Topics: Former U.S. Government Leaders, Press Releases | Tags: John Kerry
November 3, 2015 The Embassy has received reports that multiple demonstrations have been planned in various parts of Colombo for this afternoon. The exact time and venues of protests are unknown. We remind U.S. citizens that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn violent. Expect heavy police presence and severe congestion in areas around ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 3 November, 2015 | Topics: Security & Emergency Messages | Tags: Demonstration Notice
Sinhala Translation (PDF 183 KB)
Tamil Translation (PDF 122 KB) October 31, 2015: U.S. Ambassador Atul Keshap visited the Sri Ponnambalavaneswarar Temple in Colombo on October 29, at the invitation of Minister of Rehabilitation, Resettlement and Hindu Religious Affairs D.M. Swaminathan, grandson of the temple’s founder. During the visit, Ambassador Keshap was privileged to receive sacred “prasad” offerings from the Chief ...
Read More»
By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 31 October, 2015 | Topics: Press Releases
October 29, 2015
Sinhala Translation (PDF 188 KB)
Tamil Translation (PDF 287 KB) U.S. Ambassador-at-Large for Global Women’s Issues Catherine Russell departed Sri Lanka today after her two-day visit to underscore the strong U.S. commitment to gender equality and women’s empowerment in Sri Lanka. In meetings with senior government officials, civil society activists, religious leaders, entrepreneurs, and journalists in Colombo and ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 29 October, 2015 | Topics: Press Releases
October 28, 2015 The Embassy has received reports of a planned protest at about 11:00 a.m. today outside the U.S. Embassy, Colombo 3. Expect a heavy police presence and intermittent road closures around the U.S. Embassy. U.S. citizens are advised to avoid the area during the demonstration. We remind U.S. citizens that even demonstrations intended ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 28 October, 2015 | Topics: Security & Emergency Messages | Tags: Demonstration Notice
October 27, 2015 The Embassy has received reports of a planned protest at about 11:00 a.m. today opposite the United Nations compound on Bauddhaloka Mawatha, Colombo 7. U.S. citizens are advised to avoid these areas during the demonstration. We remind U.S. citizens that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn violent. Please exercise caution ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 27 October, 2015 | Topics: Security & Emergency Messages | Tags: Demonstration Notice
October 26, 2015 Ambassador-at-Large for Global Women’s Issues Catherine Russell is on travel to Sri Lanka October 27 – 29. While in Sri Lanka, Ambassador Russell will meet with government officials, members of civil society, entrepreneurs, and religious leaders to discuss a broad range of issues, including gender-based violence, women’s economic empowerment, and women’s inclusion ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 26 October, 2015 | Topics: Ambassador, Press Releases
October 23, 2015
Sinhala Translation (PDF 243 KB)
Tamil Translation (PDF 397 KB) Members of the U.S. Embassy and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers recently traveled to the South and East to survey schools and medical facilities in disaster-prone areas to identify potential infrastructure assistance. The team visited schools from the Tamil, Muslim and Sinhalese communities across the Eastern Province, ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Colombo | 23 October, 2015 | Topics: Press Releases
October 22, 2015
Sinhala Translation (PDF 150 KB)
Tamil Translation (PDF 279 KB) U.S. Ambassador Atul Keshap recently visited the facilities of All Focus (Pvt.) Ltd. in Gallella to congratulate the managers and workers for successfully boosting employment in the Polonnaruwa region. The new facilities and equipment are part of an innovative partnership between the United States Agency for International Development ...
