Number: RL31707
Title: Sri Lanka: Background and U.S. Relations
Authors: K. Alan Kronstadt, Foreign Affairs, Defense, and Trade Division 
Abstract: This report provides historical, political, and economic background on Sri Lanka and examines U.S.-Sri Lankan relations and policy concerns. Congressional interest in Sri Lanka focuses on renewed and serious violent ethnic conflict in a quartercentury- old civil war, an attendant humanitarian emergency, and efforts to revive a moribund peace process. Terrorist activity, human rights, and U.S. appropriations for food, economic, and military assistance are further congressional interests. A Congressional Caucus on Sri Lanka and Sri Lankan Americans, established in 1998, had two dozen members at the close of 2007.
Pages: 37
Date: January 22, 2008