President to visit US and Japan in September

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake will undertake two overseas visits next month — to the United States and Japan.

Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath said the President will leave for New York on September 23 to attend the UN General Assembly (UNGA) sessions. He is scheduled to address the UNGA on September 24, outlining his government’s policies, including its foreign policy, and will also hold talks with several world leaders on the sidelines.

From New York, the President will travel to Osaka on September 27 to attend Expo 2025 and take part in Sri Lanka Day, which will showcase the country’s culture, tourism, trade, and investment opportunities.

On September 28, President Dissanayake will begin a state visit to Japan at the invitation of Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba. He will hold talks with the Japanese premier on September 29 and meet Emperor Naruhito the following day.

Discussions in Tokyo are expected to focus on securing more employment opportunities for Sri Lankans in Japan and strengthening economic cooperation, including a proposal to establish a vehicle assembly plant in Sri Lanka.