The US Ambassador to Sri Lanka met with Maithripala Sirisena earlier today, as she presented her credentials and took up her posting.
Speaking at the event, Alaina Teplitz said that she was “honoured to serve as the U.S. Ambassador to Sri Lanka at this critical moment for the country and region”.
“For seven decades, the United States has supported Sri Lanka on its path to peace and prosperity,” she added.
“I look forward to joining you on this journey as we work together to address the challenges and seize the opportunities that lay ahead to ensure a safe and thriving Indo-Pacific region. Together, we can help ensure a future in which democracy empowers the people and all rest assured of respect for human rights.”
She takes up her post at a time when Colombo is facing political turmoil. In recent years, US and Sri Lankan military ties have grown, with the Americans providing extensive bouts of training.
Earlier this year Teplitz told the US Senate Committee on Foreign Relations that the Tamil community remained concerned about Sri Lanka's lack of progress towards reconciliation, accountability and justice.
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