2 senior U.S. officials visit Sri Lanka amid growing focus on Indian Ocean region

Two senior U.S. officials, including Pacific Air Forces Commander General Kevin Schneider, have arrived in Sri Lanka on separate visits focused on defence, security and economic cooperation amid Washington’s growing engagement with the strategically located Indian Ocean nation, officials said on Monday (June 22, 2026).

Mr. Schneider arrived in Sri Lanka on Sunday (June 21) for a three-day visit ending June 24, the U.S. Embassy in Colombo said.

Separately, Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs S. Paul Kapur also arrived in Colombo on Sunday (June 21) for a three-day visit, it said.

The high-profile visits assume significance in the backdrop of growing geopolitical competition in the Indian Ocean region, where China has expanded its infrastructure investments and maritime footprint in recent years.

The U.S. has been seeking to deepen defence, security and economic engagement with countries in the region, including Sri Lanka, as part of its broader Indo-Pacific strategy.

According to the U.S. mission, during his visit, Mr. Schneider will meet senior Sri Lankan Government and defence officials, including leaders of the Defence Ministry and the Sri Lanka Air Force.

“Discussions will focus on expanded cooperation across air and maritime domain awareness, cybersecurity, disaster response, and regional security,” it said.

Mr. Schneider oversees all U.S. Air Force personnel and assets across the Indo-Pacific region.

The embassy described the visit as reflecting the “growing strength of the U.S.-Sri Lanka defence partnership” and the “latest milestone in an expanding bilateral relationship built on joint exercises, military exchanges, and consistent senior-level dialogue”.

“The United States recognises Sri Lanka as an essential partner in the collective effort to preserve peace, security, and prosperity across the region,” it said.

Meanwhile, during his stay, Mr. Kapur is scheduled to meet senior Sri Lankan leaders to discuss security cooperation and regional issues.

He will also hold talks with private-sector executives and representatives of U.S. companies on expanding bilateral trade and investment ties.

“The visit reflects President Donald Trump’s commitment to strengthening partnerships that advance American prosperity and security, while deepening cooperation with Sri Lanka as a key Indian Ocean partner,” the embassy said.