United States (US) Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs, Donald Lu said that it is important that Sri Lanka must have a functional truth and reconciliation programme in place. He also mentioned that it is expected from the leaders emerging from the upcoming Elections to make it a reality.

Joining a television programme, he said that the US is ready to be a developing partner. Furthermore, Lu stated that the US encourages Sri Lanka to continue in the strengthening of bilateral relationships. In the meantime, he expressed that they are enthusiastic about the progress of Sri Lanka, highlighting that the US hopes that the progress will continue. He also noted that the US wants to be a part of it through assistance to the island nation. Commenting further, he emphasised that the biggest support that the US can extend to Sri Lanka at the moment is advice. 

Lu, who claimed that many big powers are competing for influence in the region, stated that the US expects the countries in the region to exercise sovereignty. In response to a question as to whether the US would intervene in internal matters of the nation, he assured that they are not overthrowing any Governments, adding that the US needs fair and peaceful elections to be held within Sri Lanka. 

While emphasising the importance of functional truth and reconciliation within the country, Lu commended President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s decision to grant land rights to the general public. He also mentioned that the legacy of the war must leave behind some positive effects as well.