U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for the Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs Donald Lu has commenced a week-long trip to India, Sri Lanka, and Nepal, aimed at bolstering regional cooperation and fostering shared prosperity and security. The visit, scheduled from December 3 to December 10, underscores the United States’ commitment to its partnerships in South Asia.

In New Delhi, Assistant Secretary Lu will focus on deepening U.S.-India collaboration in the Indo-Pacific and other global arenas. Accompanied by Assistant Secretary of State for the Bureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs Daniel Kritenbrink. He will co-lead U.S. participation in the U.S.-India East Asia Consultations. These discussions, along with separate meetings with senior Indian officials, are expected to provide a platform for exchanging views on pressing global and regional challenges.

On December 5, the Assistant Secretary will travel to Colombo, Sri Lanka, to enhance cooperation on economic reform, anti-corruption measures, and people-to-people ties. Joining him are USAID Deputy Assistant Administrator Anjali Kaur and Department of the Treasury Deputy Assistant Secretary Robert Kaproth. Together, they will meet with Sri Lanka’s new administration and civil society representatives to discuss tailored technical support for governance reforms, sustainable growth, and capacity-building initiatives.

The final leg of the trip takes Assistant Secretary Lu to Kathmandu, Nepal. His agenda includes meetings with senior leaders to advance collaboration on environmental protection, women’s empowerment, and sustainable development. He will also engage with youth leaders to explore the future of U.S.-Nepal relations and emphasize the importance of preserving Nepal’s cultural heritage, a cornerstone of its identity and economic vitality.
This diplomatic visit highlights the United States’ ongoing commitment to fostering strong, collaborative relationships in South Asia to address regional challenges and enhance mutual prosperity
 

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