Samantha Power arrives in Lanka

US Ambassador to the United Nations Samantha Power arrived in the country last evening, on a visit which Washington termed, 'Underscored the US support for Sri Lanka's post war struggle for lasting peace'.

At the time this edition went to press the visiting US envoy was expected to hold bi-lateral discussions with Foreign Minister Mangala Samaraweera at the Foreign Ministry last night.

An official release on her visit said, 'In Sri Lanka, Ambassador Power will highlight the United States' commitment to strengthen the bilateral partnership,' as well as 'US support for the country's efforts towards reconciliation, accountability, and lasting peace in the aftermath of a devastating civil war.

She will undertake a tour of Jaffna today to meet local government officials, civil society organisations and communities affected by the conflict. She is also expected to visit the Uthayan newspaper office and meet members of the local press.

The visitng US envoy will inaugurate a new wing of Osmania College, which suffered significant damage during the conflict, as well as tour the Jaffna Library, where she will announce US support for the local restoration of ancient Tamil manuscripts, the release added.

In Colombo also she was to meet senior government officials, community leaders, civil society groups and youth. The US Ambassador visited India prior to her arrival in Colombo.