Continued financial and technical assistance from the United States of America is essential to expedite the completion of Sri Lanka’s mine action programme, said Dr. Susil Ranasinghe, Minister of Housing, Construction and Water Supply.

The Minister made these remarks during a meeting with a U.S. delegation held at the Parliament premises on 13 October 2026.

The Government of the United States has supported Sri Lanka’s National Mine Action Programme since its inception. In 2026, the United States allocated USD 8.5 million to support mine action activities in Sri Lanka.

The Minister further stated that approximately 20.51 square kilometers of land remain to be addressed through mine clearance operations. The Government aims to expedite the clearance of the remaining contaminated land and achieve the goal of a mine-free Sri Lanka.

The U.S. delegation expressed its appreciation for the progress made under Sri Lanka’s mine action programme and exchanged views on future activities and continued cooperation.

The meeting was attended by members of the U.S. Congressional staff, representatives of HALO USA and HALO Trust Sri Lanka, which support mine action activities, representatives of the Eleanor Crook Foundation, the Secretary of the Ministry, NMAC official and other Departments.