A high-level Sri Lankan delegation is preparing to engage in crucial discussions in Washington, D.C., to address tariff-related concerns and bolster bilateral trade relations with the United States. The talks are taking place at the invitation of the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR), as confirmed by the President’s Media Division (PMD).
This marks the second in-person meeting between officials from both countries, building on a series of earlier virtual engagements aimed at strengthening economic ties. The discussions are expected to delve into potential strategies for improving trade cooperation, resolving tariff issues, and securing favorable economic outcomes for Sri Lanka amidst its broader recovery agenda.
In advance of the U.S. visit, President Anura Kumara Dissanayake convened a high-level preparatory meeting to ensure Sri Lanka’s interests are strongly represented. The session focused on aligning the delegation’s negotiating strategy with the country’s long-term economic development goals.
Notable participants at the planning meeting included:
– Dr. Harshana Suriyapperuma, Deputy Minister of Finance and Planning
– K.A. Vimalenthirarajah, Secretary to the Ministry of Trade, Commerce, Food Security and Cooperative Development
– Duminda Hulangamuwa, Senior Economic Advisor to the President
– Dr. Nandalal Weerasinghe, Governor of the Central Bank
– K.M.M. Siriwardana, Secretary to the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development
– Nirmal Vigneshwaran, representing the Attorney General’s Department
– Dharshana Perera, Ministry of Foreign Affairs
The upcoming talks are considered a strategic milestone in the evolving Sri Lanka-U.S. trade relationship, with outcomes likely to shape future export policies and investment avenues. Further details will be released upon the conclusion of the meetings in Washington.