PM and US Ambassador discuss COVID-19, the economy and joint collaborations

•  US Ambassador Teplitz calls on PM to discuss several issues
• PM requests US assistance for Sri Lanka’s apparel sector
• Ambassador says Embassy already working with companies in different sectors to connect them with buyers in the US

US Ambassador to Sri Lanka Alaina Teplitz called on Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa yesterday and discussed several issues, including the fight against the coronavirus pandemic, post-COVID-19 economic challenges and ongoing collaborations. At the meeting, the Prime Minister requested US assistance for Sri Lanka’s apparel sector, noting that some of Sri Lanka’s major apparel-sector companies are now manufacturing personal protective equipment (PPE) to help meet global demand, a press release from the Prime Minister’s Office said.

The Ambassador agreed to follow-up on this request and informed the Prime Minister that the Embassy is already working with companies in different sectors to connect them with buyers in the United States. She said the United States would like to see Sri Lanka’s multinational companies as well as SMEs successfully overcome the crisis.

The delegations also discussed upcoming elections in both countries and pending projects that the two countries will follow-up on as soon as the COVID-19 situation is under control. Speaking about the COVID-19 situation in the country, Ambassador Teplitz has said they are always hopeful that the public health situation gets better and reaffirmed the US commitment to remain a steadfast partner to Sri Lanka.