U.S. Assistant Secretary for South and Central Asia Paul Kapur said Sri Lanka’s strategic location gives it outsized global importance but also makes it vulnerable to external pressure and coercion. Speaking during a congressional subcommittee hearing on South Asia, he noted that countries such as Bangladesh, Nepal, the Maldives and Bhutan share similar geopolitical significance due to their positions in the region.
Kapur said defence cooperation with the United States helps regional partners safeguard their borders and maritime routes, while transparent and high-quality investments can support critical infrastructure such as ports, telecommunications and energy systems, reducing the risk of debt-related vulnerabilities.
Referring to broader regional strategy, he said South Asia remains vital to U.S. interests and stability, stressing the importance of maintaining a free and open region. He cited remarks by Marco Rubio, who emphasised that cooperation with like-minded partners is essential to achieving shared economic and security goals.
Kapur also highlighted the need to expand trade and strategic capacity across South Asia to strengthen economic integration, protect national autonomy and promote long-term regional prosperity.
