Tuesday Jun 23, 2026
Tuesday Jun 23, 2026
Tuesday, 23 June 2026 06:28 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}
US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs S. Paul Kapur (left) with Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath
Foreign Affairs Minister Vijitha Herath reaffirmed Sri Lanka’s commitment to neutrality and adherence to international law during discussions with United States Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs S. Paul Kapur, who is on a three-day visit to the country.
The meeting, held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, focused on bilateral relations and areas of cooperation between Sri Lanka and the United States.
Minister Herath expressed appreciation for continued US support to Sri Lanka, including assistance in securing fuel supplies amid ongoing tensions in the Middle East. He also thanked the US Government for maritime vessels and aircraft provided to the Sri Lanka Navy and Air Force.
Highlighting Sri Lanka’s improving investment climate, Herath said the country had established a secure and investor-friendly environment and invited American businesses to explore investment opportunities. He assured potential investors of the Government’s commitment to providing the necessary support and facilitation.
Kapur reaffirmed the importance the United States places on its relationship with Sri Lanka and expressed interest in further strengthening bilateral ties.
The discussions also covered the recently initiated US-Iran agreement, with Herath conveying his best wishes for its success. He additionally extended congratulations to the United States and its citizens ahead of the country’s 250th Independence Day celebrations on 4 July.
Kapur arrived in Colombo on 21 June for a visit scheduled to conclude on 24 June. During his stay, he is expected to meet senior Government leaders, private sector executives and representatives of US companies to discuss expanding bilateral trade and investment, strengthening security cooperation and advancing shared regional priorities.
According to the US State Department, the visit reflects President Donald Trump’s commitment to strengthening partnerships that advance American prosperity and security, while deepening cooperation with Sri Lanka as a key partner in the Indian Ocean region.
