Sri Lanka has welcomed the announcement made by the US and Cuba, stating the countries' intention to move towards normalising their relationship.
In a statement, the Ministry of External Affairs said this "courageous path" chosen by the leaders will enable the countries to overcome differences and called for an end to sanctions on Cuba.
"Sri Lanka has consistently called for an end to the economic, commercial and financial embargo on Cuba, by the USA, which has caused severe hardship for the people of that country. It is therefore imperative to remove this obstacle to fully restore people to people interaction which will bring renewed prosperity to both nations," the statement said.
"The constructive and courageous path chosen by the two leaders will undoubtedly enable their countries to overcome differences through dialogue and understanding based on sovereign equality."