US Ambassador hails 21st Amendment; Govt.’s efforts to prevent corruption

Minister Wijeyadasa Rajapakshe and US Ambassador to Sri Lanka Julie Chang 

A meeting between Justice, Prison Affairs and Constitutional Reform Minister Wijeyadasa Rajapakshe and US Ambassador to Sri Lanka Julie Chang was held at the Ministry of Justice yesterday.

The Ambassador praised the adoption of the 21st Constitution Amendment Bill to strengthen democracy in Sri Lanka despite the various challenges and the adoption of many new laws to bring the legal system up to date.

Ambassador Chung also appreciated the measures taken by the current Government to bring a new anti-corruption act, especially, to prevent corruption in Sri Lanka and overcome the economic crisis.

Talks were held with the aim of further improving existing ties between the two countries while the Ambassador also expressed her gratitude to the Minister for attending the opening ceremony of the new US Embassy in Sri Lanka and for the support rendered by the Government in this regard.

The Ambassador appreciated the welfare programs including mobile services implemented with the aim of providing relief to the people of the Northern and Eastern provinces and their progress.

The Minister meanwhile, informed that all investigations related to persons who have been reported missing will be completed by 31 December next year.

Following the meeting, Ambassador Chung in a Twitter post said: “Great to meet Sri Lanka’s Minister of Justice again for a conversation about efforts that support rule of law & Sri Lanka’s ongoing efforts to reform the constitution and justice sector.”

Ministry of Justice, Prison Affairs and Constitutional Reforms Secretary Wasantha Perera also joined the occasion.