US Embassy in Sri Lanka

Relations between the United States and Sri Lanka are based on mutual interests and a shared commitment to the ideals of democratic governance. U.S. policy toward Sri Lanka is characterized by respect for its independence, sovereignty, and moderate nonaligned foreign policy; support for the country’s unity, territorial integrity, and democratic institutions; and encouragement of its social and economic development. The United States is a strong supporter of ethnic reconciliation in Sri Lanka following the end of decades of civil conflict in 2009. Since the January 2015 change in government in Sri Lanka, Secretary John Kerry, Under Secretary for Political Affairs Thomas Shannon, and Ambassador to the United Nations Samantha Power have visited Sri Lanka, and Sri Lanka’s Foreign Minister has twice visited Washington, DC. In February 2016 the two countries held the inaugural U.S.-Sri Lanka Partnership Dialogue in Washington, DC.