Sri Lanka’s President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has written directly to US President Donald Trump regarding the implications of the recent tariffs imposed by the United States, Deputy Finance Minister Professor Anil Jayantha Fernando said.
Answering a question raised by MP Ravi Karunanayake, the Deputy Minister further stated that in the letter, President Dissanayake highlighted possible ways to mitigate the issue, suggested actions that could be taken, and requested a reduction in tariffs. He also mentioned that the White House has acknowledged receipt of the letter.
Elaborating on the measures already taken, the Minister pointed out that the Sri Lankan government has held several discussions with United States trade representatives and the US Ambassador. He further said that a virtual meeting with US trade representatives is scheduled for tonight.
Denying accusations that the government has not taken appropriate action on the matter, Professor Fernando stated that the government initiated dialogue with the United States on the issue in February. He emphasized that this is not a problem between the two countries but a global issue.
