Newly appointed Ambassador of the United States to Sri Lanka, Julie Chung says coming back to Sri Lanka is a dream come true and she is truly honored to take up the new post.
Recalling that she has visited the island nation ten years ago, Chung said her memories of the visit -“The incredible natural beauty, delicious foods and spices, the trains and tuk tuks and above all the warmth of the Sri Lankan people I met then,”- are “still vivid and fresh.”
In a video statement, Ambassador Chung said it’s a tremendous honor to step into the role of Ambassador and is looking forward to learning more about the country, its ancient heritage, dynamic culture, and modern complexities.
She said Sri Lanka and the United States have a lot in common, from democratic values to the shared commitment to a safe and prosperous Indo-Pacific.
“America’s spirit of innovation and entrepreneurship together with many waves of immigrants from all over the world is what has driven our country’s economy for two centuries. That same spirit will shape my work as Ambassador as we strengthen people to people ties, with civil society, the business sector and the youth of Sri Lanka.”
Being a first-generation American from a family of immigrants to the United States from South Korea, Chung said diversity and tolerance are paramount to her as a woman of color.
After meeting with Secretary of State Anthony Blinken before her departure to Sri Lanka, Ambassador Chung said she looks forward to working with the government of Sri Lanka, civil society and the people to build the economies of the two countries, explore shared values and strengthen bilateral relations.
🇺🇸 & 🇱🇰 have a lot in common – from our #democratic values to our shared commitment to a safe & prosperous Indo-Pacific. As the new US Ambassador to 🇱🇰, I’d like to introduce myself. Check out this video to hear why I’m so excited to represent 🇺🇸 on this beautiful island. pic.twitter.com/dKbTa9uLv9
— Ambassador Julie Chung (@USAmbSL) February 18, 2022