Donald Lu, the United States Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs, is set to embark on a diplomatic mission to India, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh from May 10 to 15.

The purpose of his trip is to bolster bilateral cooperation with each country and underscore U.S. support for a free, open, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region.

In Chennai, Assistant Secretary Lu will engage with Consulate personnel to enhance bilateral engagement in southern India, aiming to strengthen ties in the region.

Following his visit to India, Lu will head to Colombo to hold discussions with officials representing various political factions, emphasizing the United States' commitment to deepening its partnership with Sri Lanka. He will focus on reaffirming U.S. support for Sri Lanka's economic recovery efforts and underscore the importance of a vibrant civil society as a fundamental element of a free and democratic society.

The trip will conclude in Dhaka, where Assistant Secretary Lu will meet with government officials, civil society leaders, and other stakeholders to discuss avenues for U.S.-Bangladesh cooperation. 

Key topics on the agenda include collaborative efforts to combat the climate crisis and further strengthen economic ties between the two nations.