The United States has committed to providing essential support to strengthen Sri Lanka’s economy.
In a meeting held today (Oct. 8) at the Presidential Secretariat, Mrs. Julie J. Chung, the US Ambassador to Sri Lanka, announced that support would be focused on fostering an export-driven economy in the country.
Additionally, Ambassador Chung conveyed congratulations from US President Joe Biden to President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, delivered through Secretary to the President Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake.
She also noted that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) are prepared to offer financial support to help enhance the economic prospects of Sri Lanka.
The United States has pledged both financial and technical support for President Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s initiatives aimed at preventing fraud and corruption.
The US has also expressed its commitment to assisting efforts for good governance and ensuring the security of Sri Lanka whenever needed.
Additionally, the United States supports the new president’s programs focused on developing renewable energy, fostering an export-oriented agricultural industry, and alleviating rural poverty.
Ms. Julie J. Chung, the American Ambassador, further noted that the current program providing lunches for rural schools will be expanded to include urban schools in the future.
The event was attended by USAID Deputy Director for Sri Lanka and Maldives, along with economic expert Christopher Gooch.
Sri Lankan athletes delivered strong performances at the 2025 Taiwan Open Athletics Championship, with Nadeesha Lekamge securing a silver medal in the women’s javelin throw and Chamod Yodhasinghe earning bronze in the men’s 100m sprint.
Lekamge’s Season-Best Throw Secures Silver
Nadeesha Lekamge recorded a season’s best throw of 56.62 meters, finishing just behind India’s Annu Rani (56.82m), who took gold.
Lekamge’s performance highlights her consistent form ahead of upcoming international competitions.
Yodhasinghe’s Speed Earns Bronze in 100m
Chamod Yodhasinghe clocked 10.38 seconds in the men’s 100m finals, securing third place behind Australia’s Jiseph Ayoade (10.34s) and Japan’s Bruno Dede (10.36s).
The Sri Lankan sprinter had earlier impressed in the heats with a 10.29-second run, showcasing his potential on the international stage.
In a major relief for Sri Lankans married to Filipino citizens, the Philippine government has officially begun issuing 5-year Temporary Residence Visas (TRVs), replacing the previous 2-year permits.
The move follows years of advocacy by the Sri Lankan community in the Philippines, who faced difficulties due to frequent renewals and prolonged passport retention by authorities. Many struggled with travel restrictions, especially for business and emergencies.
Sri Lanka’s Ambassador to the Philippines, Chanaka Talpahewa, prioritized the issue upon assuming office, engaging in high-level discussions with top Philippine officials, including the Vice President, Foreign Secretary, and key ministers. His persistent efforts led to the policy change, easing bureaucratic hurdles for binational families.
The extended visa validity reflects deepening Sri Lanka-Philippines relations, offering stability to Sri Lankan expatriates. Previously, the short-term TRVs caused financial and logistical strain, with families facing repeated paperwork and delays.
The Ministry of Defence says that approximately 3,000 members of the Sri Lankan armed forces have been taken into custody for failing to report for duty without formally resigning.
The arrests were made during the period from February 22 to the present, as part of a coordinated operation conducted jointly by the tri-forces and the police.
Among those detained, 2,261 are members of the Sri Lanka Army.
The Ministry stated that the operation aims to enforce military regulations and ensure discipline within the armed forces by taking action against those who have gone absent without leave (AWOL).