On the anniversary marking 15 years since the end of Sri Lanka’s civil war, the United States stands in solidarity with all Sri Lankans, reflecting on the resilience and hope for a united future. We remain a steadfast partner to the Sri Lankan people, including those who continue…
— Ambassador Julie Chung (@USAmbSL) May 18, 2024
The US Ambassador to Sri Lanka sent out a tweet stating her government “stands in solidarity with all Sri Lankans” as Tamils around the world marked Tamil Genocide Remembrance Day, commemorating the tens of thousands massacred by the Sri Lankan state 15 years ago.
Julie Chung said the US government is “reflecting on the resilience and hope for a united future”.
“We remain a steadfast partner to the Sri Lankan people,” she added, “including those who continue seeking justice, equal rights, and access to opportunities”.
Her tweet comes as Tamils, the ethnic group that was slaughtered by the Sri Lankan state, held remembrance ceremonies across the island and around the world. To date, there has still been no accountability for the killings.
Despite the lack of progress on accountability, and continued human rights abuses, the US military has been building closer ties with Sri Lanka. Just three days ago, whilst Tamils were preparing to commemorate the genocide Chung met with the naval commander in charge of occupying forces in the North.
Met with Rear Admiral Rohitha Abeysinghe, the new Northern Naval Commander of @srilanka_navy, to discuss efforts between the United States and Sri Lanka supporting Sri Lanka’s maritime sovereignty. We’re collaborating on initiatives to enhance maritime domain awareness, along… pic.twitter.com/0Mzf3ddpFq
— Ambassador Julie Chung (@USAmbSL) May 15, 2024
