Courtesy Hiru News

In the confirmation hearing before the US Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Elizabeth K. Horst, the nominee for US Ambassador to Sri Lanka, unveiled a comprehensive vision for US-Sri Lanka relations. Her testimony underscored strategic security measures and economic cooperation, alongside a fervent advocacy for human rights causes.

A pivotal aspect of Horst’s testimony was the imperative to monitor Chinese research vessels in the Indian Ocean, suspected to have ties to China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA). She emphasized the necessity of collaborating with Sri Lanka to bolster its maritime patrol capabilities, aiming to safeguard sovereignty and uphold regional stability.

The full statment is given below;

Opening Statement of Elizabeth K. Horst

Nominee to be U.S. Ambassador to Sri Lanka

Senate Foreign Relations Committee

Mr. Chairman, Ranking Member Rickets, and distinguished Members of the committee, thank you for convening this hearing. I am honored to appear before you today as the President’s nominee for U.S. Ambassador to Sri Lanka. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to be considered for this esteemed and critical role. Senators, I appreciate your consideration of my nomination.

I began my diplomatic career in South Asia over 20 years ago and have long championed fundamental U.S. principles, including the respect for human rights and economic freedom. Our ability as Americans to thrive while safeguarding the democratic values enshrined in our Constitution is what distinguishes us and serves as an example to others. If confirmed, I eagerly anticipate collaborating with Congress to uphold and advance U.S. interests.

Before delving into further details regarding our relationship with Sri Lanka, I wish to extend my gratitude to several individuals who have supported me on my journey to this hearing. Foremost, my husband, Army COL JP Gresh, who is my rock and source of joy. Our household embodies civilian-military cooperation, and together, we have built our lives around a shared commitment to public service and adventure: five countries, four dogs, and fifteen years and counting.

Accompanying me today is my sister, Sarah Horst, whose humor and candid feedback have been invaluable. Additionally, my two nieces, Bailey Evans and Kate Evans, are present, and I hope that witnessing today’s proceedings inspires them on their own paths of public service. I also extend my heartfelt appreciation to my parents: my father, Dr. Jim Horst, who instilled in me empathy, and my mother, Reverend Dr. Judith Stone, who taught me the value of generosity. These qualities have served me well in my roles as a diplomat and leader in the U.S. Foreign Service.

Sri Lanka holds a crucial position as a partner to the United States in the Indo-Pacific region, a relationship spanning over 76 years. If confirmed, I intend to focus on three primary pillars of the U.S.-Sri Lanka relationship: expanding our economic cooperation, strengthening our security interests, and fostering ties with Sri Lanka’s diverse and vibrant population.

Sri Lanka’s economy possesses significant potential. Enhancing trade relations, promoting private sector-led growth, and fostering inclusive innovation and entrepreneurship are central to my vision for deepening our economic ties.

Despite enduring a civil war that concluded in 2009 and facing political and economic crises in 2022, Sri Lanka remains resilient. During the 2022 crisis, the United States provided immediate food aid and chemical fertilizers to alleviate hunger and ensure a successful harvest. Presently, we continue to provide meals for schoolchildren nationwide. As Sri Lanka regains economic stability and confidence, we remain steadfast in our support for the Sri Lankan people.

Given Sri Lanka’s strategic importance in the Indian Ocean and its proximity to global maritime lanes, close collaboration is essential to promoting a secure Indo-Pacific region. Our partnership is vital for addressing emerging security challenges and adversaries, including combating transnational crime, enhancing maritime security, and responding to natural disasters. If confirmed, I will reaffirm our shared commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific region, collaborative maritime security, the rules-based international order, and stability throughout the Indian Ocean.

Sri Lanka boasts a vibrant civil society, and if confirmed, I eagerly anticipate expanding our people-to-people ties, including with the dynamic Sri Lankan American community. I will advocate for marginalized populations, accountability, truth and reconciliation, and transparency and justice in Sri Lanka.

In conclusion, I emphasize a fourth pillar, the true cornerstone of diplomatic success: the dedicated individuals at the U.S. Embassy Colombo. If confirmed, I am eager to lead, develop, and empower our interagency team and local staff to make a meaningful impact in our bilateral relationship and advance a foreign policy that benefits the American people. I eagerly anticipate collaborating with Congress to fortify our significant ties with Sri Lanka. Thank you, and I welcome your questions.