Gotabaya writes to Joe Biden and Kamala Harris

COLOMBO (News1st): President Gotabaya Rajapaksa has written to newly-elected US President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris highlighting the long-standing relations and close ties between the two nations. In his letter, the President noted that the people of Sri Lanka join hands with him to convey the country's warmest greetings to the new President and the people of the US. "Sri Lanka under my leadership...is committed to further strengthen and consolidate this multifaceted partnership with the US, grounded in mutual respect, shared values and common interest," Rajapaksa noted. He added that Biden's long years of public service and "astute statesmanship" will stand in good stead for greater progress and prosperity for the US in ensuring peace, development, and stability across the globe. Rajapaksa noted that Kamala Harris, the first women Vice President to be elected in the US, is a historic achievement for the women in the US. "Your Indian heritage gives all of us in South Asia special pride," the Sri Lankan president said.