News Today: President says US tariff talks are positive

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake says US tariff talks are positive, offering fresh optimism for the country’s trade future. Speaking to reporters yesterday, President Dissanayake shared that discussions between the Sri Lankan delegation and US officials over reciprocal tariffs have been productive. He mentioned that both nations are expected to issue a joint statement shortly.

“Our delegation, including the Deputy Finance Minister, has held detailed conversations with US authorities. I’ve been informed that these discussions were fruitful,” President Dissanayake said.

The Sri Lankan delegation traveled to the United States primarily to engage with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) regarding the Extended Fund Facility programme, and also to meet US government officials concerning the new reciprocal tariffs impacting Sri Lankan exports.

Addressing an election rally in Ratnapura for the National People’s Power (NPP) candidates, the President reiterated his commitment to economic stability. “If our economy collapses due to external conflicts, pandemics, or policies from other countries, it shows how dependent and unstable our system is. We aim to create a resilient economy that can face such challenges,” he stated.

He also highlighted that the Sri Lankan rupee has maintained stability against the US dollar at Rs. 300 for the last six months, reflecting growing confidence in the economy. “There are no shortages of goods and services, and the rupee has remained steady. This demonstrates that we are stabilizing,” he added.

Looking ahead to 2025, President Dissanayake predicted a record number of tourist arrivals. He also revealed ongoing plans to develop major attractions in Yapahuwa, Trincomalee, and to revitalize Anuradhapura City with support from the Indian government.

In closing, President Dissanayake credited the public’s support for the NPP as a demand for change. “The people were tired of 70 years of broken promises. They wanted to break the cycle,” he said.