In a farewell message shared on X (formerly Twitter), Ambassador Chung reflected on the progress achieved in U.S.–Sri Lanka relations, describing her service as a privilege.
“It has been a privilege serving these last four years as U.S. Ambassador to Sri Lanka. As I prepare to depart, I’m grateful to everyone who followed and engaged in advancing the U.S.–Sri Lanka relationship during my time here,” she said.
Ambassador Chung highlighted key areas of cooperation, noting that both nations worked together to strengthen security ties, expand economic cooperation, and reinforce a partnership that benefits both countries.
She emphasized that the relationship, rooted in shared democratic values and history, will remain important in the Indo-Pacific region.
Arriving in Sri Lanka in 2022, Ambassador Chung witnessed the country navigate a major economic and political crisis. She praised the resilience and determination of the Sri Lankan people during this challenging period, adding that the United States stood firmly in support of stability and recovery.
“Serving here as ambassador has been one of the great honors and blessings of my life,” she stated.
Among the milestones achieved during her tenure were the 75th anniversary of U.S.–Sri Lanka diplomatic relations and several initiatives to strengthen security cooperation, port infrastructure, and development programs.
In her farewell remarks, Ambassador Chung also expressed personal appreciation for Sri Lanka’s culture and spirit.
“Your art, stories, resilience, and spirit will always stay with me. As I say farewell, I leave proud of what we accomplished and confident of what comes next. There’s something truly magical about Sri Lanka,” she concluded.
Ambassador Julie Chung, who began her service in Colombo in February 2022, is expected to depart Sri Lanka today (January 16), marking the end of her tenure as the United States’ top diplomat in the country.
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