The Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs, Donald Lu, is scheduled to undertake an official visit to India, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh from May 10-15, according to the US State Department.
The purpose of Lu’s trip is to enhance bilateral cooperation with each country and demonstrate US support for a free, open, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region, the State Department stated in a release.
“In Chennai, Assistant Secretary Lu will meet with Consulate personnel to enhance bilateral engagement in southern India,” the State Department release stated.
After his visit to India, the US diplomat will travel to Colombo to engage with officials from various political parties and strengthen the United States’ partnership with Sri Lanka.
“During his meetings, he will reaffirm the United States’ support for Sri Lanka’s economic recovery, as well as the importance of a robust civil society as a foundation of a free and democratic society,” the release noted.
Assistant Secretary Lu will conclude his six-day visit in Bangladesh.
While in Dhaka, he will hold discussions with government officials, civil society leaders, and other Bangladeshis to “discuss US-Bangladesh cooperation,” including efforts to address the climate crisis and enhance economic ties.”