Top US Official in Sri Lanka for Defense, Economic Ties

The US Under Secretary for Political Affairs, Allison Hooker, has arrived in Sri Lanka for a high-level official visit aimed at strengthening bilateral relations.

During her stay, Hooker is expected to hold discussions with the Sri Lankan Government on a broad range of issues, including commercial ties, defense cooperation, and support for Sri Lanka’s economic and maritime sovereignty.

In a statement issued by the US Embassy in Colombo, it said:
“Through close cooperation on defense, trade, and maritime security, we are working together to advance a free, open, and resilient Indo-Pacific region.”

The United States has also pledged support for Sri Lanka’s post-Cyclone Ditwah recovery plan, reaffirming its commitment to assisting the country during this challenging period.

“We remain committed to working together to address both immediate challenges and long-term opportunities for our two nations,” the Embassy noted.

Trade and Economic Relations

Bilateral trade between the United States and Sri Lanka reached US$ 4.1 billion last year.

Sri Lanka exported goods worth US$ 3 billion to the US market, while imports from the United States totaled US$ 366 million in 2024.

Sri Lanka’s main exports to the US include apparel, rubber products, gem and jewellery items, and machinery.

In return, Sri Lanka mainly imports residues and wastes of the food industry, animal fodder, and machinery including nuclear reactors and boilers from the United States.

Tourism

During the first eight days of December, approximately 1,400 US tourists arrived in Sri Lanka.
The United States continues to rank among Sri Lanka’s top 10 tourism markets.