By: Staff Writer

October 29, Colombo (LNW): U.S. Ambassador to Sri Lanka, Julie Chung, has clarified that the United States has not imposed a travel ban on Sri Lanka, and the recent security alert specifically advised Americans to avoid the Arugam Bay area temporarily.

Speaking on Monday 28 , Ambassador Chung emphasized that protecting U.S. citizens abroad is central to her role, noting the U.S. Embassy’s proactive collaboration with the Sri Lankan government in addressing this specific security threat.

Chung explained the Embassy’s “duty to warn” policy, which mandates notifying U.S. citizens, Embassy staff, and local authorities about any credible threats to American nationals.

She reiterated that this approach is a standard U.S. protocol applied worldwide. When a credible threat was identified in Arugam Bay, the U.S. Embassy promptly informed Sri Lankan officials, who responded swiftly, underscoring their dedication to national security and transparency.

The Ambassador further clarified that the U.S. has only advised Americans to avoid Arugam Bay and has not altered the country’s longstanding “Level 2” travel advisory, a status also shared by destinations like the Maldives, France, and Italy.

Emphasizing a continued commitment to Sri Lanka’s tourism and overall stability, Chung reaffirmed the U.S.’s support in helping Sri Lanka maintain a safe and inviting environment for visitors.

The recent security alert around Arugam Bay, a popular tourist destination in Sri Lanka, has stirred concerns for the country’s tourism sector and overall stability.

Although the specifics of the threat remain undisclosed, the U.S. Embassy’s prompt advisory urging American citizens to avoid the area highlights the severity of the risk. This alert, while not a full travel ban, still affects perceptions of safety, especially for a destination heavily reliant on tourism.

Arugam Bay is a significant draw for international tourists, especially surfers, and the alert could lead to a temporary dip in visitors—not only to this region but potentially to other tourist areas.

This decrease could disrupt the local economy and tourism industry, which is a key pillar of Sri Lanka’s recovery efforts post-COVID-19 and following the 2019 Easter Sunday attacks.

In response, Sri Lanka’s prompt collaboration with the U.S. Embassy shows a commitment to prioritizing safety, which is vital for rebuilding global confidence in the country as a secure destination.

Swift action by local authorities can help mitigate long-term reputational impacts by demonstrating proactive measures and international cooperation in addressing security threats.

The incident underlines the importance of transparent communication and collaboration with international partners, especially countries that contribute significantly to tourism.

 By maintaining a high level of responsiveness and clear communication, Sri Lanka can sustain its position as a trusted destination, helping to restore stability and reassure travelers.