Reed J. Aeschliman has assumed duties as the new Mission Director of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) for Sri Lanka and Maldives this month.

His arrival, the US Embassy said in a media release, corresponds with the launch of several new initiatives and more than Rs. 4.5 billion in programmes that advance youth employability, rule of law, and reconciliation in Sri Lanka.

“We are fortunate to have Mr. Aeschliman join the US Embassy team as we celebrate 70 years of partnership between the US and Sri Lanka,” said US Ambassador Atul Keshap. “The people of Sri Lanka and Maldives will benefit from his strong experience in managing USAID development assistance. He will also ensure that funds provided by the American taxpayer are spent wisely in support of our shared goals to see Sri Lanka become a reconciled, peaceful and prosperous democracy that contributes to regional security and upholds fundamental human rights and equality for all.”

In Maldives, USAID has supported a wide range of initiatives since 2001, including safe and clean water for island residents, management of coastal resources, and strengthening the capacity of government institutions.

Since 1956, the US Government has provided more than $2 billion (approximately Rs. 300 billion) in development and humanitarian assistance that has benefited Sri Lankans across the country. This assistance has made meaningful impact on inclusive economic growth, good governance reforms, and recovery from humanitarian crises.

Mr. Aeschliman has worked at USAID since 2000 and has served in the Philippines and Pacific Islands, Afghanistan, Cambodia, and India. His most recent prior assignment was in Washington where he served as Deputy Assistant Administrator, Bureau for Asia.