US Ambassador to Sri Lanka, Julie Chung, today (28) said that the US continues to work with the government of Sri Lanka to ensure the safety and prosperity of Sri Lankans, and visitors alike. 

Issuing a special statement a short while ago, Ambassador Chung said that she takes pride in the ongoing collaboration between the U.S. Embassy and the Government of Sri Lanka (GOSL) to address recent security threats, stressing that the US has not activated a travel ban on the island nation. 

Chung stressed her duty to ensure the safety of American citizens in Sri Lanka, explaining the embassy's "duty to warn" policy, which mandates sharing credible security threats with staff, U.S. citizens, and the host Government. “Around the world, our embassies operate under a ‘duty to warn’, where if we become aware of a credible, specific security threat, we are required to share it with our citizens and the host government. This approach is standard practice across the world.” 

She said that detailed communication was made with Sri Lankan authorities upon identifying a specific threat in the Arugam Bay area, which was met with a swift response by the Sri Lankan Government. “We continue to actively co-ordinate with them on a daily basis. And we value our partnership with Sri Lanka’s leadership and its security officials, who’s commitment to safety and transparacy is notable” she said. 

Chung also corrected misconceptions about a travel ban in Sri Lanka, stating that while Americans are advised to avoid Arugam Bay until further notice, the overall travel advisory for Sri Lanka remains at Level 2, consistent with advisories for other popular destinations like the Maldives, France, and Italy.

She reiterated the importance of continued safety and stability for a thriving tourism sector, reaffirming the U.S. commitment to supporting Sri Lanka in fostering a secure and welcoming environment for all.