The United States should consider adopting a more flexible approach to certain tariff measures imposed on Sri Lanka, Most Venerable Thibbatuwawe Sri Sumangala Thero, Chief Prelate of the Malwathu Chapter, told newly appointed US Ambassador to Sri Lanka Eric S. Meyer.

The Chief Prelate made the remarks when Ambassador Meyer visited Kandy and paid a courtesy call on the Chief at the Malwathu Maha Viharaya.

During the meeting, the Chief Prelate also expressed his appreciation to the Ambassador for the assistance and facilities provided by the United States to Sri Lanka.

Ambassador Meyer subsequently visited the Asgiriya Maha Viharaya, where he paid a courtesy call on the Most Venerable Warakagoda Sri Gnanarathana Thero, Chief Prelate of the Asgiriya Chapter, and received his blessings. Deputy Registrar of the Asgiriya Chapter, Ven. Dr. Muruddeniye Dhammarathana Thero, was also present.

Speaking to media, Ambassador Meyer said he considered his appointment as the US Ambassador to Sri Lanka, as well as receiving the blessings of the Chief Prelates of the Malwathu and Asgiriya Chapters, a great honour.

He further said that the United States and Sri Lanka have maintained diplomatic relations for a very long time.

Ambassador Meyer said he hopes to further strengthen the relations between the two nations during his tenure. 

He added that he had previously visited Sri Lanka as a tourist approximately 25 years ago.