Julie Chung – Newswire https://www.newswire.lk Sri Lanka's largest News aggregator Fri, 16 Jan 2026 08:31:37 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.7 https://www.newswire.lk/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/favicon.png Julie Chung – Newswire https://www.newswire.lk 32 32 Gammanpila celebrates Julie Chung’s departure, calls her a curse https://www.newswire.lk/2026/01/16/gammanpila-celebrates-julie-chungs-departure-calls-her-a-curse/ Fri, 16 Jan 2026 08:31:37 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=219327

Pivithuru Hela Urumaya leader and former Minister Udaya Gammanpila has described the conclusion of outgoing US Ambassador Julie Chung’s tenureContinue Reading

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Pivithuru Hela Urumaya leader and former Minister Udaya Gammanpila has described the conclusion of outgoing US Ambassador Julie Chung’s tenure in Sri Lanka as the end of a four‑year “curse” on the country.

Addressing the media today, Gammanpila called US Ambassador Julie Chung a “curse” and said her departure should be celebrated, eating milk rice.

“Julie Chung is set to end her tenure in Sri Lanka today. This is something the whole country must celebrate with drums and kiribath,” he added, taking a bite of a piece of kiribath, symbolically commencing the celebration. (Newswire)

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US Ambassador Julie makes farewell call on Sajith https://www.newswire.lk/2026/01/16/us-ambassador-julie-makes-farewell-call-on-sajith/ Fri, 16 Jan 2026 07:13:17 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=219311

Outgoing U.S. Ambassador to Sri Lanka Julie Chung met Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa today at his office in Colombo, asContinue Reading

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Outgoing U.S. Ambassador to Sri Lanka Julie Chung met Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa today at his office in Colombo, as she concludes her tenure in the country and prepares to return to the United States.

The meeting was held as a farewell occasion, during which Premadasa expressed his gratitude and respect to Ambassador Chung for the support she extended to Sri Lanka during her service. 

He noted that the outstanding contributions she made as Ambassador will never be forgotten. (Newswire)

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President meets outgoing US Ambassador Julie Chung https://www.newswire.lk/2026/01/13/president-meets-outgoing-us-ambassador-julie-chung/ Tue, 13 Jan 2026 03:58:57 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=218808

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake met with U.S. Ambassador Julie Chung at the Presidential Secretariat on Monday, ahead of her scheduledContinue Reading

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President Anura Kumara Dissanayake met with U.S. Ambassador Julie Chung at the Presidential Secretariat on Monday, ahead of her scheduled departure from Sri Lanka on January 16, marking the end of her diplomatic tenure.

During the meeting, President Dissanayake expressed his appreciation for Ambassador Chung’s efforts to strengthen relations between the United States and Sri Lanka.

The President acknowledged her role in securing U.S. assistance for communities impacted by Cyclone Ditwah and highlighted her contributions to discussions with the International Monetary Fund.

Ambassador Chung has served as the United States Ambassador to Sri Lanka since February 2022. (Newswire)

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FM Herath thanks US Ambassador Julie Chung at farewell meeting https://www.newswire.lk/2026/01/09/fm-herath-thanks-us-ambassador-julie-chung-at-farewell-meeting/ Fri, 09 Jan 2026 12:27:44 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=218487

Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath met outgoing US Ambassador Julie Chung today, as she paid her farewell call, marking the conclusionContinue Reading

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Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath met outgoing US Ambassador Julie Chung today, as she paid her farewell call, marking the conclusion of her tenure in Sri Lanka.

“I thanked Ambassador Chung for her indefatigable efforts to strengthen US–Sri Lanka relations during her tenure of office, and especially for the quick coordination of assistance by the US authorities in the aftermath of Cyclone Ditwah,” Minister Herath said, commenting on the meeting.

In a post on ‘X’, he added that Sri Lanka extends its best wishes to Ambassador Chung as she embarks on her next assignment. (Newswire)

 

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Sri Lanka to receive 10 Bell 206 helicopters from the US https://www.newswire.lk/2026/01/08/sri-lanka-to-receive-10-bell-206-helicopters-from-the-us/ Thu, 08 Jan 2026 11:24:30 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=218276

The United States has announced that it will offer 10 US Navy TH‑57 (Bell 206 SEA RANGER) helicopters to theContinue Reading

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The United States has announced that it will offer 10 US Navy TH‑57 (Bell 206 SEA RANGER) helicopters to the Sri Lanka Air Force at no cost for the equipment itself. 

Taking to ‘X’, US Ambassador to Sri Lanka Julie Chung said the helicopters, manufactured in Texas and built for reliability, are being transferred under the Excess Defence Articles Program.

She further said that the helicopters are expected to arrive in Sri Lanka in early 2026.

“So pleased that the United States can offer 10 @USNavy TH‑57 (Bell 206 SEA RANGER) helicopters to @AirForceLK at no cost for the equipment itself. Crises like Cyclone Ditwah demonstrate the vital role helicopters play in search & rescue. These 10 helicopters will support the Sri Lanka Air Force by enhancing its fleet & pilot training for more effective disaster response,” she said.

The move is expected to significantly strengthen Sri Lanka’s disaster preparedness and response capacity, particularly in search and rescue operations during emergencies such as Cyclone Ditwah. (Newswire)

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US Ambassador Julie Chung to leave Sri Lanka on Jan 16 https://www.newswire.lk/2026/01/07/us-ambassador-julie-chung-to-leave-sri-lanka-on-jan-16/ Wed, 07 Jan 2026 04:50:25 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=218019

Ambassador Julie Chung will leave Sri Lanka on January 16, ending almost four years as the United States’ top diplomatContinue Reading

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Ambassador Julie Chung will leave Sri Lanka on January 16, ending almost four years as the United States’ top diplomat in Colombo, according to the U.S. Embassy in Colombo.

“I have loved every moment of my time in Sri Lanka. From day one, my focus has been to advance America’s interests, strengthening our security partnerships, expanding trade and investment, and promoting education and democratic values that make both our nations stronger. Together, we’ve built a relationship that delivers results for the American people and supports a free, open, and secure Indo-Pacific,”  Ambassador Chung said in a statement.

Deputy Chief of Mission Jayne Howell will serve as Chargé d’Affaires, a.i., until the arrival of a new U.S. Ambassador.

In a statement, the U.S. Embassy said that Ambassador Julie Chung’s tenure, which began in February 2022, was marked by several milestones, including the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the United States and Sri Lanka in 2023, the return of U.S. Peace Corps volunteers in 2024, and the 80th anniversary of the Fulbright Program. She also oversaw the Embassy’s move to its new LEED Gold–certified facility in October 2022, a landmark that reflects America’s commitment to a sustainable, secure, and enduring presence in Sri Lanka and underscores the U.S. focus on building a modern partnership for the future of the Indo-Pacific

Under Ambassador Chung’s leadership, the U.S. Embassy advanced significant initiatives to support Sri Lanka’s economic recovery. These included U.S. support for the IMF Extended Fund Facility and multiple U.S. Department of Agriculture packages to strengthen food security, and, most recently in December 2025, U.S. assistance in response to Cyclone Ditwah, providing timely humanitarian support to affected communities.

Since 2022, the Ambassador has led engagement with Sri Lankan partners in support of freedom, prosperity, and security across the Indo-Pacific. During her tenure, the Embassy deepened U.S. security cooperation through regional security and disaster response exercises such as CARAT, ATLAS ANGEL, and Pacific Angel, alongside an MOU between the Montana National Guard and Sri Lanka’s Ministry of Defence. She also oversaw the transfer of critical maritime security assets, including a Beechcraft King Air aircraft and two former U.S. Coast Guard vessels, bolstering Sri Lanka’s ability to protect its vast maritime domain. Through these efforts, the Ambassador advanced U.S. cooperation with Sri Lanka on regional maritime security, reaffirming the U.S. commitment to a partnership rooted in mutual respect, shared values, and Indo-Pacific stability.

Under Ambassador Chung, youth and education programs flourished. The Peace Corps officially resumed its activities in 2024, and American cultural and educational outreach grew through new facilities such as the American Corner in Batticaloa and an English Language Lab in Trincomalee. Programs like the Embassy’s Youth Forum, the Young South Asian Leadership Initiative (YSALI), and the English Access program continue to empower the next generation of Sri Lankan leaders.

Ambassador Chung also elevated cultural heritage as a component of U.S. engagement in the Indo-Pacific, supporting conservation of the historic Godawaya shipwreck near Hambantota through the Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation. These efforts reflected U.S. leadership in preserving shared history while reinforcing the U.S.–Sri Lanka strategic partnership and underscoring the importance of Indo-Pacific security, the statement said.

The US Embassy in Colombo further said that the United States remains committed to its partnership with Sri Lanka and will continue to work closely with the government and people of Sri Lanka to build on the strong foundation established during Ambassador Chung’s nearly four-year tenure. (Newswire)

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Fourth U.S. Coast Guard cutter transferred to Sri Lanka https://www.newswire.lk/2025/12/03/fourth-u-s-coast-guard-cutter-transferred-to-sri-lanka/ Wed, 03 Dec 2025 08:52:44 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=213496

Another former U.S. Coast Guard cutter has been transferred from Baltimore, Maryland, USA, the 4th such vessel to Sri Lanka,Continue Reading

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Another former U.S. Coast Guard cutter has been transferred from Baltimore, Maryland, USA, the 4th such vessel to Sri Lanka, deepening cooperation with the Sri Lanka Navy.

“As response efforts for Cyclone Ditwah are underway, including those via sea, we’re reminded how much strong maritime partnerships matter,” US Ambassador to Sri Lanka Julie Chung said in a post on ‘X’. 

Ambassador Chung further said that the vessel’s voyage to Sri Lankan waters will take several months, but will embolden Sri Lanka’s future efforts against drug trafficking, smuggling, and search & rescue efforts, reflecting an enduring U.S. commitment to maritime preparedness. (Newswire)

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NO change to SL advisory level – USA https://www.newswire.lk/2025/10/16/no-change-to-sl-advisory-level-usa/ Thu, 16 Oct 2025 04:23:08 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=206661

US Ambassador to Sri Lanka Julie Chung has confirmed that there has been no change to the travel advisory issuedContinue Reading

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US Ambassador to Sri Lanka Julie Chung has confirmed that there has been no change to the travel advisory issued by the US Department of State for Sri Lanka recently. 

Ambassador Chung noted that the U.S. Department of State regularly issues travel advisory updates to enable U.S. citizens to make informed decisions about international travel. 

“The Travel Advisory issued for Sri Lanka on October 9 remains at Level 2. There was no change to the advisory level,” Ambassador Chung added, in a post on ‘X’. 

The clarification comes as several recent reports claimed that the U.S. Department of State has revised its travel advisory for Sri Lanka. 

However, the travel advisory was updated last week only to include landmine risks, as lands in the war-affected Northern part of Sri Lanka had been released to the public after several years.

The U.S. Department of State’s travel advisory on Sri Lanka: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/sri-lanka-travel-advisory.html (Newswire)

 

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US Ambassador commends Customs $1.6 Mn narcotics nab https://www.newswire.lk/2025/08/01/us-ambassador-commends-customs-1-6-mn-narcotics-nab/ Fri, 01 Aug 2025 10:05:29 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=197353

US Ambassador to Sri Lanka Julie Chung praised Sri Lanka Customs officers for two major narcotics seizures with an estimatedContinue Reading

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US Ambassador to Sri Lanka Julie Chung praised Sri Lanka Customs officers for two major narcotics seizures with an estimated street value of USD 1.6 million.

The seizures included 17.5 kilograms of hashish and cocaine—marking the first-ever interdiction of cocaine slabs at Bandaranaike International Airport—and 4.2 kilograms of synthetic drugs hidden in parcel mail at the Colombo Central Mail Exchange.

In a message posted on social media, the ambassador credited the success to the enhanced skills and commitment of Sri Lankan officers, developed through a US-funded partnership with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). The cooperation falls under the Passenger and Cargo Control Programme, which provides training and equipment to strengthen border security.

The initiative aims to support Sri Lanka’s efforts to combat illicit trafficking as a strategic transhipment hub between Asia and the Americas. (Newswire)

 

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Another group of 90 US English Access Scholarship students graduates https://www.newswire.lk/2025/06/09/another-group-of-90-us-english-access-scholarship-students-graduates/ Mon, 09 Jun 2025 08:02:15 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=190454

Ninety (90) secondary school students from Jaffna, Trincomalee, and Nuwara Eliya who completed the US-funded English Access Scholarship Program graduatedContinue Reading

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Ninety (90) secondary school students from Jaffna, Trincomalee, and Nuwara Eliya who completed the US-funded English Access Scholarship Program graduated today (09 June), according to the US Embassy in Sri Lanka.  

The ceremony, held in Galle, featured US Ambassador Julie Chung and Professor Gamani Fonseka, Director of Smart International Professionals for Leadership Education (SIPLEE), who presented certificates to the graduates. 

The free two-year program, implemented in partnership with SIPLEE, provides intensive English language and leadership training to economically disadvantaged youth, expanding their educational and career opportunities while strengthening people-to-people ties between the United States and Sri Lanka. 

At the graduation ceremony, Access students showcased their growing confidence and English proficiency by serving as Masters of Ceremony, delivering speeches, performing a short play, and singing. 

US Ambassador to Sri Lanka Julie Chung praised their accomplishments, highlighting the program’s broader impact: “Programs like Access do more than teach English—they build leadership. These students are developing the communication skills, confidence, and global mindset that will help them succeed in any field they choose, from technology to public service. It’s about equipping the next generation with the tools they need to lead in Sri Lanka and beyond.” 

The United States supports initiatives like Access because empowering young people through education and opportunity creates a world that is stronger, safer, and more prosperous for both nations and the global community. 

About English Access: 

The English Access Scholarship Program is a US Department of State–funded global initiative that provides talented students from economically disadvantaged communities with free, two-year training in American English, leadership, and communication skills. In Sri Lanka, the program is implemented by local educators at five locations across the country and is funded through the U.S. Embassy in Colombo. Access not only strengthens students’ English proficiency but also builds their confidence, civic awareness, and understanding of American culture and democratic values. 

Since its launch in Sri Lanka in 2004, the program has empowered over 1,300 youth island-wide. Many Access graduates go on to pursue higher education, win competitive US exchange scholarships, and enter careers in education, technology, business, and public service—playing leadership roles in both the public and private sectors. Access classes are led by experienced Sri Lankan English language professionals using interactive, student-centred teaching methods that emphasise real-world communication and personal development. (Newswire)

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Top US officials meet PM Harini to discuss the future of Development Cooperation https://www.newswire.lk/2025/05/23/top-us-officials-meet-pm-harini-to-discuss-the-future-of-development-cooperation/ Fri, 23 May 2025 04:26:02 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=188146

US Ambassador to Sri Lanka, Julie Chung and Acting Mission Director and Programme Office Director for USAID Sri Lanka andContinue Reading

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US Ambassador to Sri Lanka, Julie Chung and Acting Mission Director and Programme Office Director for USAID Sri Lanka and Maldives, Ms. Maureen Hsia, paid a courtesy call to Sri Lankan Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya in Parliament yesterday.

According to the PM’s Office, the group thereafter engaged in a discussion focused on the evolving framework of U.S. foreign assistance to Sri Lanka and potential avenues for sustained cooperation.

The delegation briefed the Prime Minister on the recent three-month moratorium imposed on all foreign assistance by the United States, pending a comprehensive review by the U.S. Department of the Treasury. 

Discussions centered on the implications of this decision, particularly its potential impact on key development initiatives such as the women’s shelter project, and broader humanitarian concerns if current support mechanisms are disrupted.

Both parties acknowledged the critical role of the United States as a global leader in development and emphasized the importance of continuing bilateral collaboration. 

PM Amarasuriya welcomed the United States’ commitment to identifying alternative modalities to ensure uninterrupted support for Sri Lanka’s development priorities.

In addition, the meeting addressed tariff negotiations, recognizing their relevance in bolstering economic resilience and supporting the country’s long-term growth trajectory. (Newswire)

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Julie Chung visits Dullus Alahapperuma’s house https://www.newswire.lk/2025/05/22/julie-chung-visits-dullus-alahapperumas-house/ Thu, 22 May 2025 04:48:19 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=188009

Leader of the Freedom People’s Congress, Dullas Alahapperuma, and US Ambassador to Sri Lanka, Julie Chung, have engaged in aContinue Reading

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Leader of the Freedom People’s Congress, Dullas Alahapperuma, and US Ambassador to Sri Lanka, Julie Chung, have engaged in a cordial and constructive discussion at the Parliamentarian’s residence on Wednesday. 

Taking to ‘X’, former MP Alahapperuma said the discussions focused on the current political landscape in Sri Lanka, the new administration in the USA, economic cooperation, and bilateral relationships.

“Grateful for her continued passionate engagement with Sri Lanka, its culture & people,” he added.

Dullas Alahapperuma also met the political secretary for the US Embassy, Zach Lones, alongside US Ambassador Julie Chung. (Newswire)

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US officially hands over Advanced Nuclear Detection Equipment to SL Navy https://www.newswire.lk/2025/05/15/us-officially-hands-over-advanced-nuclear-detection-equipment-to-sl-navy/ Thu, 15 May 2025 10:11:01 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=187115

The US Embassy in Sri Lanka has provided state-of-the-art radiation and chemical detection equipment valued at US$ 01 million toContinue Reading

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The US Embassy in Sri Lanka has provided state-of-the-art radiation and chemical detection equipment valued at US$ 01 million to the Sri Lanka Navy, significantly boosting the country’s capacity to detect and respond to nuclear, radiological, and chemical threats in its maritime domain. 

According to a US Embassy statement, this advanced equipment is supplied through the Department of Energy’s National Nuclear Security Administration (DOE/NNSA) and its Office of Nuclear Smuggling Detection and Deterrence (NSDD).

It was officially handed over during a ceremony at Sri Lanka Navy Headquarters today (15 May), attended by US Ambassador to Sri Lanka, Julie Chung and Sri Lanka Navy Commander Vice Admiral Kanchana Banagoda. 

The equipment enhances the Sri Lanka Navy’s capability to conduct visit, board, search, and seizure (VBSS) operations in the Indian Ocean while strengthening its ability to detect and intercept hazardous chemical, radiological, and nuclear materials, safeguarding the nation’s ports and maritime routes.

“This advanced equipment is a vital tool for protecting Sri Lanka’s maritime borders and ensuring the safety of the entire region,” said U.S. Ambassador to Sri Lanka Julie Chung. “By enhancing the Navy’s ability to detect and respond to nuclear and radiological threats, we are not just strengthening Sri Lanka’s security—we are also safeguarding international shipping routes, protecting communities, and making sure harmful materials don’t reach America’s and other countries’ shores. This partnership is about keeping people safe, maintaining secure trade, and reinforcing our shared commitment to regional security.”

This equipment transfer is the first major initiative following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in February 2024 between the Sri Lanka Navy and DOE/NNSA. The MOU aims to strengthen bilateral cooperation in detecting and preventing the illegal transport of nuclear and radioactive materials. 

In addition to this transfer, in March, the US Embassy, through DOE/NNSA, donated $500,000 worth of new radiation detection equipment at Colombo Port’s West Container Terminal, further enhancing Sri Lanka Customs’ ability to detect radioactive materials and secure global supply chains. 

This equipment is crucial because it helps prevent dangerous radioactive materials from entering everyday products, protects communities from potential hazards, strengthens the safety of international shipping routes, and stops nuclear and radiological threats before they can reach U.S. shores. The NSDD will continue to support the Sri Lanka Navy in the future through specialised training in the use of radiation detection equipment and further enhancement of the Navy’s VBSS capabilities. 

The US Embassy further said that the United States remains committed to supporting Sri Lanka’s efforts to enhance maritime security, detect and deter nuclear threats, and ensure a safer, more secure Indian Ocean region and U.S. homeland. (Newswire)

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Sajith meets Julie Chung over US tariffs issue https://www.newswire.lk/2025/04/09/sajith-meets-julie-chung-over-us-tariffs-issue/ Wed, 09 Apr 2025 14:30:03 +0000 http://www.newswire.lk/?p=182608

Opposition Leader MP Sajith Premadasa and US Ambassador to Sri Lanka Julie Chung have engaged in discussions focusing on advancingContinue Reading

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Opposition Leader MP Sajith Premadasa and US Ambassador to Sri Lanka Julie Chung have engaged in discussions focusing on advancing the US-Sri Lanka trade relationship.

In a message on ‘X’, MP Sajith Premadasa said he stressed on the importance of a fair, forward-looking partnership, during the meeting. 

“Had a constructive discussion today with the US Ambassador to Sri Lanka on deepening trade ties. I stressed the importance of a fair, forward-looking partnership that unlocks opportunity, supports Sri Lankan industries, and delivers real benefits to both our people,” MP Premadasa said.

Also commenting on the meeting, US Ambassador Julie Chung said the discussion with MP Premadasa focused on advancing a more balanced US-Sri Lanka trade relationship.

“Productive discussion today with Sajith Premadasa, Leader of the Opposition, Samagi Jana Balawegaya, on advancing a more balanced U.S.-Sri Lanka trade relationship. A fairer trade dynamic can fuel economic growth and job creation for both our nations,” Ambassador Chung said in a message on ‘X’. (Newswire)

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Julie Chung visits UNP HQ Sirikotha https://www.newswire.lk/2025/03/27/julie-chung-visits-unp-hq-sirikotha/ Thu, 27 Mar 2025 11:01:14 +0000 http://www.newswire.lk/?p=180808

A discussion has been held between US Ambassador to Sri Lanka, Julie Chung and senior members of the United NationalContinue Reading

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A discussion has been held between US Ambassador to Sri Lanka, Julie Chung and senior members of the United National Party (UNP) at the party headquarters in Sirikotha today. 

Accordingly, Ambassador Julie Chung had engaged in discussions with UNP Chairman Wajira Abeywardana and General Secretary Thalatha Athukorala.

It is reported that the discussion, which had taken place for over an hour, had focused on the current political state and the UNP’s political activities.

US Ambassador Julie Chung has previously held discussions at the headquarters of the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) and the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) as well. 

Commenting on the discussions, US Ambassador Julie Chung said the meeting had taken place as part of a cross-party engagement.

“Grateful for the perspectives shared today at my meeting with UNP Secretary General Thalatha Athukorala and UNP Chairman Vajira Abeywardena as part of our cross-party engagement. We spoke about our nations’ shared commitment to democracy and how our U.S.-Sri Lanka cooperation — on maritime security and economic growth — makes both nations safer, stronger and more prosperous,” she said in a statement on ‘X’. (Newswire)

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Trump admin may Demand Sri Lanka to increase US imports https://www.newswire.lk/2025/03/25/trump-admin-may-demand-sri-lanka-to-increase-us-imports/ Tue, 25 Mar 2025 07:28:14 +0000 http://www.newswire.lk/?p=180379

Tamil Progressive Alliance (TPA) Leader MP Mano Ganesan says the US Government may demand the Government of Sri Lanka toContinue Reading

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Tamil Progressive Alliance (TPA) Leader MP Mano Ganesan says the US Government may demand the Government of Sri Lanka to increase imports from the USA to reduce the huge trade imbalance.

Taking to ‘X’, MP Mano Ganesan revealed he was informed in this regard during a recent meeting with US Ambassador to Sri Lanka, Julie Chung.

MP Mano Ganesan further said during the meeting he conveyed the message that ‘USA First’ and ‘Sri Lanka First’ policies should meet at a positive point for both countries.

“USA accounts for 23% of Sri Lanka’s annual exports, valued at $16B, but we import $370M worth of goods from the USA. Our host informed us that the Trump Administration may expect Sri Lanka to increase imports from the US in order to reduce trade imbalance,” he said, 

The opposition MP further said that they were also informed that US cotton fabric raw material for the Sri Lankan apparel industry is one such possible import that could be increased.

“The economic rebuilding of Sri Lanka, the reconciliation process, and the aspirations of marginalized Malaiyaha Tamil Community were the other subjects of our discussion,” he added.

MP Mano Ganesan also stated that the US Embassy dismissed media reports of a scheduled visit to the US by Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath. 

Reports of the visit arose after US President Donald Trump announced in February to impose reciprocal tariffs on several countries.

Soon after, Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath informed Parliament that a Sri Lankan delegation would visit the US in April to discuss how Sri Lanka could avoid the reciprocal tariffs. (Newswire)

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Commander of US Indo-Pacific Command arrives in Sri Lanka https://www.newswire.lk/2025/03/20/commander-of-us-indo-pacific-command-arrives-in-sri-lanka/ Thu, 20 Mar 2025 05:32:47 +0000 http://www.newswire.lk/?p=179728

The Commander of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command (INDOPACOM), Admiral Samuel J. Paparo, has arrived in Sri Lanka on a three-dayContinue Reading

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The Commander of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command (INDOPACOM), Admiral Samuel J. Paparo, has arrived in Sri Lanka on a three-day official visit from 19-21 March.

According to the US Embassy in Sri Lanka, Admiral Paparo will engage with senior Sri Lankan government officials and military leaders during his visit.

The talks will focus on reaffirming the enduring U.S.-Sri Lankan security partnership and sharing the U.S. vision for regional stability and security in the Indo-Pacific. 

The US Embassy further said Commander Paparo’s visit underscores the United States’ ongoing commitment to enhancing security cooperation with Sri Lanka and addressing shared challenges in the Indo-Pacific.

Upon his arrival in Sri Lanka, Admiral Paparo was welcomed by US Ambassador to Sri Lanka Julie Chung.

“Pleased to welcome @INDOPACOM Commander Admiral Samuel Paparo to reaffirm our bilateral defense partnership with Sri Lanka and share our vision of stability and security across the Indo-Pacific,” Ambassador Chung said in a statement on ‘X’.

Ambassador Chung further said the Commander’s visit underscores the United States’ commitment to diplomatic and defense investments for continued peace and stability in the region. (Newswire)

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USAID probe : Ambassador Chung visits SLPP office https://www.newswire.lk/2025/02/14/usaid-probe-ambassador-chung-visits-slpp-office/ Fri, 14 Feb 2025 08:35:36 +0000 http://www.newswire.lk/?p=175036

US Ambassador to Sri Lanka Julie Chung visited the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) head office in Colombo today.  SoonContinue Reading

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US Ambassador to Sri Lanka Julie Chung visited the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) head office in Colombo today. 

Soon after her arrival, SLPP MP Namal Rajapaksa also arrived at the SLPP head office.

Ambassador Julie Chung’s visit comes in the backdrop of MP Namal Rajapaksa having called for a probe into the activities of Non-Governmental Organizations funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).

“Following the #USAID exposure by the @POTUS administration, the @PodujanaParty propose to the Speaker of Parliament to appoint a Parliamentary Select Committee to identify the NGOs – both registered and unregistered – operating in the country and who is funding them. When clearly there is suspicion raised by the #USA Government, #SriLanka should not ignore the warnings and conduct a probe for the benefit and stability of the nation,” MP Rajapaksa said in a recent post on ‘X’.

However, commenting on today’s meeting with US Ambassador Julie Chung, MP Namal Rajapaksa said they engaged in discussions of mutual interest and reaffirmed the SLPP’s dedication to strengthening the bilateral relationship between the U.S. and Sri Lanka.

“We commend the non-interference foreign policy upheld by U.S. President @realDonaldTrump and his call for greater transparency in the use of taxpayer funds,” he said in a post on ‘X’.

MP Rajapaksa further said, additionally, they briefed Ambassador Chung on the SLPP’s proposal for a Parliamentary Select Committee to investigate the use of USAID funds by both registered and unregistered NGOs in Sri Lanka, with a focus on ensuring transparency in the allocation of U.S. taxpayer resources.

He added that the SLPP looks forward to collaborating closely with the new U.S. administration for the mutual benefit of both nations. (Newswire)

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US Ambassador Julie Chung meets Energy and Environment Ministers https://www.newswire.lk/2024/12/09/us-ambassador-julie-chung-meets-energy-and-environment-ministers/ Mon, 09 Dec 2024 12:04:08 +0000 http://www.newswire.lk/?p=167364

US Ambassador to Sri Lanka Julie Chung has met with Sri Lanka’s Minister of Environment, Dr. Dhammika Patabendi and MinisterContinue Reading

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US Ambassador to Sri Lanka Julie Chung has met with Sri Lanka’s Minister of Environment, Dr. Dhammika Patabendi and Minister of Energy, Kumara Jayakody in separate meetings to discuss efforts toward climate adaptation, energy transition, and sustainability.

In her meeting with Minister Patabendi, Ambassador Chung highlighted shared priorities such as agricultural sustainability and energy transition.

“We discussed shared priorities like climate adaptation, energy transition, and agricultural sustainability, building on @USAIDSriLanka programs that align with Sri Lanka’s goals. As climate impacts continue to disproportionately affect vulnerable communities, collaboration is essential,” the Ambassador said in a post shared on ‘X’.

During discussions with Minister Jayakody, Ambassador Chung reiterated a commitment to affordable, sustainable, and secure energy solutions for Sri Lanka.

She noted USAID’s support for local partners in driving climate resilience across sectors like agriculture, fisheries, and tourism, as well as advancing initiatives in waste management, circular economy practices, and green finance. (Newswire)

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US tech firm invests $8.5 mn in Sri Lanka relocating from China https://www.newswire.lk/2024/11/01/us-tech-firm-invests-8-5-mn-in-sri-lanka-relocating-from-china/ Fri, 01 Nov 2024 11:31:37 +0000 http://www.newswire.lk/?p=163664

American engineering technology group Transdigm Group has invested $8.5 million in Sri Lanka partnering with AmSafe BirdPort to establish aContinue Reading

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American engineering technology group Transdigm Group has invested $8.5 million in Sri Lanka partnering with AmSafe BirdPort to establish a new facility in the Wathupitiwala Export Processing Zone (EPZ).

According to the Board of Investment of Sri Lanka (BOI), the new investment saw the launch of a new factory ‘SHIELD’ to provide engineering solutions for global aviation services.

The BOI announced that with the new investment ‘SHIELD’ has shifted to Sri Lanka from China. 

The foundation stone for the new SHIELD factory was laid yesterday (Oct 31) in a ceremony attended by SHIELD Chairman Dennis Pursel, Board of Investment (BOI) Chairman Arjuna Herath, BOI Director-General Renuka M. Weerakoon, AmSafe BirdPort General Manager Chandani Ekanayake, and US Ambassador to Sri Lanka Julie Chung.

“Following a merger of AmSafe Commercial Products and Beam’s Seatbelts in 2013, SHIELD has become a global leader in occupant safety systems.  From child car seats to commercial vehicle seatbelts, SHIELD’s products are trusted worldwide for their quality and reliability.  SHIELD’s decision to shift its facility in China to establish a manufacturing facility here in Sri Lanka is a testament to the growing interest of U.S. investment in Sri Lanka.  The United States is already the largest export market for Sri Lanka, and it’s wonderful to see greater U.S. investment directly here, as well.  We want to see even greater bilateral trade and investment expand both ways in the years to come,” US Ambassador Julie Chung said.

The US Ambassador further said manufacturing moves like this one, driven by customer demand to diversify supply chains, represent a great opportunity for Sri Lanka.

“If the new government can strengthen the investment climate, implement anti-corruption measures, and strengthen business-friendly governance and transparency, there is potential for even more manufacturers to make similar moves,” she added.

AmSafe BirdPort General Manager Chandani Ekanayake said the company has been already providing engineering solutions for global airlines and aircraft manufacturers such as Boeing and Airbus and is making a significant contribution to the country’s economy.

Transdigm is a $6.6 billion worth U.S. company with more than 16,000 employees worldwide. Transdigm Group, a leading provider of engineering solutions for global aviation, is the parent company of AmSafe BirdPort, which operates in Sri Lanka.

SHIELD provides a range of accessories focused on safety in a variety of applications such as child seats, utility vehicles, commercial trucks, RVs, motor coaches, school/transit buses and construction/agricultural equipment.

The BOI states the $ 8.5 million investment is expected to create 500 direct employment opportunities for Sri Lankans. (Newswire)

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