President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, who is currently in the United States to attend the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly, met with US President Donald Trump’s Special Envoy for South and Central Asian Affairs and the Director of the White House Presidential Personnel Office, Sergio Gor in New York.

The meeting took place at the Office of Sri Lanka’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, the President’s Media Division said.

During the meeting, attention was drawn to areas of significance to both countries, including trade, commerce, tourism and investment, with discussions focusing on further strengthening cooperation in these sectors.

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake stated that following an unprecedented economic crisis, Sri Lanka, as a new government with a strong public mandate, is committed to pursuing closer and more productive relations with the United States, with priority placed on building a prosperous economy aimed at sustainable growth.

The President also highlighted the measures taken by the government, including necessary structural reforms, to ensure long-term economic stability and to safeguard transparency for the future of the people.

Both parties also reviewed the progress of discussions held between Sri Lankan representatives and United States officials on finding effective and equitable solutions to address the trade imbalance between the two countries, minimising barriers affecting bilateral trade and reaching an agreement to ensure fair and mutually beneficial trade relations.

President Dissanayake, who arrived in the United States yesterday (23), is scheduled to address the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) at 3:15 pm US time today (24).

The President’s flight touched down at John F. Kennedy International Airport at approximately 8:50 a.m. US time yesterday.

Upon his arrival, President Dissanayake was warmly received by Sri Lanka’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, former Chief Justice and President’s Counsel Jayantha Jayasuriya, along with members of his delegation.

During his visit, the President is also expected to hold bilateral meetings with the UN Secretary-General and several world leaders.

Additionally, he will meet with members of the Sri Lankan community residing in the United States.