Ambassador Ravinatha Aryasinha on the 17 February 2021 hosted a virtual meeting via zoom with the founding members of the USA - Sri Lanka Chamber of Commerce (SLCC) and impressed on them the importance of re-activating the Chamber. He noted that besides furthering their own business interests in the USA, the SLCC’s affiliation with the US Chamber of Commerce and the ability to enter into MOUs with Sri Lankan counterparts would help the Embassy efforts at pursuing the ambitious economic agenda embarked upon by Sri Lanka to ensure greater traction across the USA. He added that with the launching of the US based Overseas Sri Lankans (OSL) Network in January 2020, the Embassy had already identified and networked with key members of the Sri Lankan community involved in the commercial sectors, and the revival of the SLCC early would be mutually beneficial.  

Earlier, Mr. Dilan Ariyawansa, President US-Sri Lanka Chamber of Commerce, had briefed on the founding rationale of the SLCC, but pointed out that the SLCC initially set up in 2009 has remained inactive since 2013.

Following this meeting, through several discussions Sumedha Ponnamperuma Minister (Commercial) had with the founding members of the Chamber, it was re-activated on the 22 February 2021.

Mr. Prashanth Wijedasa Vice President (USA-SLCC), Ms. Vajira Mendis Vice President (USA - SLCC), Mr. Prashantha Ratnayake Secretary and Mr. Nimal Karunathilake Director (USA - SLCC) participated representing the USA-Sri Lanka Chamber of Commerce. Mr. Sumedha Ponnamperuma Minister (Commercial) and Mr. Niranga Palipana First Secretary (Consular & Finance) also were associated with the Ambassador for the meeting.

Embassy of Sri Lanka

Washington DC

25 February 2021