A significant meeting took place at the National People’s Power (NPP) party headquarters on October 19, 2023, as United States Ambassador for Sri Lanka, Mrs. Julie Chung, convened with the NPP leader, Mr. Anura Dissanayake.
Accompanying Ambassador Chung were U.S. Embassy’s Political Officer, Matthew Hinson, and Political Expert, Nazreen Marikkar. The NPP delegation included Mr. Vijitha Herath, Member of the National Executive Committee and Member of Parliament, as well as Mr. Muditha Nanayakkara, a National Executive Committee Member.
During the meeting, Mr. Dissanayake brought to Ambassador Chung’s attention the urgent need for United Nations intervention to de-escalate the conflict between Israel and Palestine. The ongoing conflict has inflicted a heavy toll on both sides, with innocent civilians, including children and women, bearing the brunt.
In addition to discussing international issues, Mr. Dissanayake highlighted the impact of austerity measures imposed by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) under the Extended Fund Facility program. These measures have exacerbated the economic challenges faced by the people, and Mr. Dissanayake pointed out the shared responsibility of successive governments in this regard.
Mr. Vijitha Herath raised concerns about attempts by the government to curtail democratic rights. He specifically addressed the postponement of local government elections, the delay in holding provincial council elections, and the looming uncertainty regarding the upcoming presidential election.
Ambassador Chung also took the opportunity to extend her congratulations to Mr. Anura Kumara Dissanayake, the NPP leader, for his upcoming visit to the United States, scheduled to commence on October 26, 2023.
