COLOMBO (News 1st): United States Secretary of State, Antony J. Blinken has extended his congratulations to the people of Sri Lanka on the 74th anniversary of the independence on February 4th.

“The United States and Sri Lanka have a long history of friendship and partnership. As you commemorate your national day, we take a moment to celebrate our joint work on economic recovery, democratic governance, and bringing our people together,” he stated, according to US State Department.

“Over the last year, the United States and Sri Lanka collaborated to respond to maritime environmental disasters and support affected communities, promote sustainable economic development, and increase opportunities for women and small businesses,” he added.

“The United States provided life-saving vaccines, ventilators, and technical assistance to support Sri Lanka’s COVID-19 response. We know that when our governments and societies work together, we can increase prosperity, security, and harmonious relations in our countries and across the globe,” the statement further noted.

• Far from Ukraine, Sri Lanka is the epicenter of a global crisis
• Strong winds likely tonight (6)
• UKs Boris Johnson is facing his biggest crisis
• GL meets UN Resident Coordinator
• Railways resumes operations despite low work force