WASHINGTON : Ambassador of Sri Lanka to the United States Mahinda Samarasinghe presented the first copy of the Coffee Table Book published by the Embassy to mark the 250th anniversary of
Independence of the United States to Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs of the
Department of State Allison Hooker at the Department of State on 15 July 2026.
The Coffee Table Book is an initiative by the Embassy to underscore the enduring friendship
and longstanding partnership between Sri Lanka and the United States.
The Book reflects upon the key milestones in relations between Sri Lanka and the United
States, assistance provided by the United States to Sri Lanka over the years and also
recognizes prominent individuals of both countries who have contributed to the socioeconomic development of the two nations. Through compelling photography and insightful
narratives, the publication offers readers a comprehensive perspective on longstanding
relations between Sri Lanka and the United States.
During the meeting, the Ambassador briefed the Under Secretary on the objectives of the
publication and reaffirmed Sri Lanka’s commitment to further consolidate bilateral relations.
He also informed her that he would work towards translating this publication into Sinhala
and Tamil languages, making it more accessible to the general public in Sri Lanka.
The Under Secretary welcomed the publication and appreciated the Embassy’s initiative in
documenting the historical information on the evolving US-Sri Lanka relations, at a special
juncture when the US is celebrating its 250th anniversary of independence.
The publication of this Coffee Table Book was made possible as a result of a generous
sponsorship made by the Joint Apparel Association Forum Sri Lanka (JAAF), underscoring
the Embassy’s ongoing efforts to foster stronger bilateral ties and expand public and trade
diplomacy initiatives.
