Restoring political stability is crucial' - US ambassador

<p>The United States ambassador to Sri Lanka, Alaina Teplitz urged the government to resolve the political crisis promptly in an interview with the Daily FT, warning the that "restoring political stability is crucial".&nbsp;</p> <p>"In the short term, the political crisis needs to be resolved. As a friend and partner, we have urged Sri Lanka and the leaders of the country to move promptly, to resolve it in a transparent and democratic way. This is critical, as we know political instability sends a risk message to investors. Ending that messaging and restoring political stability is crucial. It is important to remember that, even if resolved, there is going to be a period required to restore confidence and trust in Sri Lanka for investors," she said.&nbsp;</p> <p>"I have seen that a number of industry groups, including Chambers of Commerce and Industry, had come out and said “please resolve the political crisis”, as it is harming the business and economy and future opportunities. The business community and the civil society, speaking loudly and clearly about what they see as the way forward. Political leaders should take it onboard, understanding that the crisis has impacted well beyond the political realm. In the long run, removal of barriers to do more business and economic activity is important, as industry knows best."</p> <p>Teplitz also highlighted the long lasting effects of the current crisis, warning that a "perception of political instability" will remain.&nbsp;</p> <p>"Certainly in the US we have our experiences of political disagreements, and demonstrations can play a part of that. But when they are peaceful and expressed in a proper way, the people get the message but the country isn’t damaged as a result, which is what happens if there are violent responses. Perceptions do matter. Even once the crisis is resolved, businesses will have a perception of political instability here. The same is true, or the damage could be more profound, were there to be unrest."</p> <p>Read more <a href="http://www.ft.lk/front-page/New-US-Ambassador-opens-up-to-Sri-Lanka/44-…">here</a>.&nbsp;</p>