Outgoing US envoy says people-to-people ties that sustain the relationship

Aliana B. Teplitz

Outgoing US Ambassador to Sri Lanka Aliana B. Teplitz whose tenure has come to a close said it is the people-to-people ties that sustain the relationship between the two countries.

In a video message, Ambassador Teplitz said the US has partnered closely with the Government to promote Sri Lanka’s prosperity and sovereignty, and to strengthen the private sector and people-to-people ties people-to-people ties.

Following is the text of the Ambassador’s message.

“Sri Lanka is a magnificent country. It has been an honour to serve as Ambassador here and there is so much that I’ll miss. From the brilliant blue magpies in my yard to the smell of kottu roti and especially the broad smiles and warm, welcoming people.”

“It’s those people-to-people ties – in business and Government, in civil society and in our daily lives – that sustain the relationship. They have also helped us walk through some of the most difficult moments of the last few years, including the Easter attacks and COVID-19, events that have weighed heavily on us all.”

“The people of the US and Sri Lanka have a slot in common. As democracies, with 70 years of shared history, we strive to promote and protect essential democratic principles, like the rule of law, inclusive governance and freedom of expression.”

“The US has partnered closely with the Government to promote Sri Lanka’s prosperity and sovereignty, and to strengthen the private sector and people-to-people ties.”

“Over the past 20 years, US assistance to Sri Lanka has totalled more than $ 1 billion, and we continue to identify new areas of cooperation. We’ve been a generous partner during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic. The US has provided almost $ 18 million to Sri Lanka to aid its fight against COVID-19, in addition to contributing over 2.4 million vaccines donated at no cost to the Sri Lankan people.”

“For all these common goals and investments, we do sometimes disagree. But diplomacy’s essence is to keep talking and to keep working through our challenges. We need that open communication and ability to work through areas where we may not have full agreement – to keep the bilateral relationship on a good trajectory.”

“We shall extend the arc of our two democratic nations’ partnership far into the future. I have no doubt. My tenure in Sri Lanka would not be complete, if I did not make special mention of my experiences with this island’s natural beauty culture, food and of course you – its people. From the delicious seafood curries in Jaffna, to the frescoes in Sigiriya, to the tea estates of Nuwara Eliya and the beaches of Galle, Sri Lanka has captivated me. I will always remember and be forever grateful for the warmth and generosity of the Sri Lankan people. Thank you very much.”