Powell assures continued US assistance
[January 07, 2005 - 11.30 GMT]

President Kumaratunga today received the US Secretary of State Colin Powell at the President's House. He was accompanied by US Ambassador Jeffrey Lunstead and Director of USAID Mr. Andrew Natsios and senior US officials.

Secretary Powell expressed his condolences on behalf of the Government and people of the United States. Having been to Galle before calling on the President, he said he now has first hand knowledge of the devastation caused to Sri Lanka by the tsunamis. He told President Kumaratunga he would convey to President George Bush the effect of the catastrophe on the lives of people in Sri Lanka. He assured the President the US is committed to help Sri Lanka in its economic redevelopment programme.

The President expressed her gratitude to the US Government and the American people for the assistance already granted and for the prompt deployment of the US Marine Corps who have already begun assisting in clearing debris in the coastal areas.

Secretary Powell who chaired the Millennium Challenge Account (MCA) Committee that selected Sri Lanka in 2004 for MCA benefits said Sri Lanka having requalified for 2005 would stand to benefit by greater US assistance for rural development and SMEs. He made special mention of US assistance in the housing sector in coastal areas. These US projects would help rebuild the lives of people by generating new job opportunities. Secretary Powell said people's response back at home was tremendous. He said the preliminary estimates indicate that funds collected by American organizations and individuals exceed USD 200,000.

Associated with the President at the today's discussions were Foreign Minister Lakshman Kadirgamar, Minister Mangala Samaraweera, Secretary to the President W. J. S. Karunaratne and Foreign Secretary H. M. G. S. Palihakkara.

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Last Updated Date: January 07, 2005 - 11.30 GMT