She was speaking before media gathered at the Foreign ministry in Colombo today (25), where visiting Assistant Secretary of State for Democracy, Human Rights and Labour Tom Malinowski and Sri Lanka's External Affairs minister - Mangala Samaraweera was also present.

"We are here at this very momentous occasion to reaffirm the strong support of the United States for Sri Lanka… for the commitment of the Sri Lankan government and the Sri Lankan people towards this path of democracy of good governance of peace and of prosperity," she said.

"Just recently, we let President Sirisena know that we would be supporting resettlement and education in Sampur with commitment of one million dollars in resources and we look forward to working with the President, with the Prime minister and with the new government in this and other endeavours," she added.

Speaking, Assistant Secretary of State for Democracy, Human Rights and Labour Tom Malinowski commended the steady progress made by the Sri Lankan government in a short span of time.

"What is most important to us is the message that the people of Sri Lanka have sent twice now this year…people of Sri Lanka… North South East West have told us that they support change. Twice now. They have voted… for the rule of law against impunity, for reconciliation, for building this country, developing this country for everyone and against the politics of ethnic and religious division.

Speaking, Foreign minister Mangala Samaraweera said, "Several new areas of cooperation were identified during the very successful visit of Secretary Kerry to Colombo in May this year. Our discussions today focused on follow-up on those understandings and on working towards even closer and tangible links."

"We look forward to regular high level interactions at all levels reflecting the current US - Sri Lanka relationship," the minister added.