Julie Chung has taken up her posting as the US Ambassador to Sri Lanka this week, describing it as a “dream come true” to return to the island.
“I first visited the island 10 years ago, and those memories are still vivid and fresh,” said Chung, in a video released to mark her taking up the post earlier today.
& have a lot in common – from our #democratic values to our shared commitment to a safe & prosperous Indo-Pacific. As the new US Ambassador to , I’d like to introduce myself. Check out this video to hear why I’m so excited to represent on this beautiful island. pic.twitter.com/dKbTa9uLv9
— Ambassador Julie Chung (@USAmbSL) February 18, 2022
“America’s spirit of innovation and entrepreneurship together with many waves of immigrants from all over the world is what has driven our country’s economy for two centuries,” she added. “That same spirit will shape my work as Ambassador, as we strengthen people-to-people, with civil society, the business sector and the youth of Sri Lanka.”
Before leaving to Sri Lanka, Chung met with US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken in Washington.
“I look forward to working with the GoSL, civil society & people like you to build our economies, explore our shared values & strengthen [US and Sri Lanka] ties,” she tweeted.
I met with @SecBlinken before boarding the plane to Colombo. As I told him, I am truly honored to be the next US Ambassador to & I look forward to working with the GoSL, civil society & people like you to build our economies, explore our shared values & strengthen ties. pic.twitter.com/3Ce4wvbCPx
— Ambassador Julie Chung (@USAmbSL) February 17, 2022
Read more on the new US ambassador in our pieces:
US nominee ambassador to Sri Lanka is critical of Chinese influence
Testimony of Julie Chung – Nominee for US Ambassador to Sri Lanka
US Senate confirms Julie Chung as next Ambassador to Sri Lanka