US acting Asst Secy Littlejohn to visit Sri Lanka, India, Maldives

US acting Asst Secy of State to visit Colombo, Chennai, New Delhi. & Male during Aug 17-31 to discuss nature, marine conservation

Aug 16 - US acting Assistant Secretary of State for Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs Jennifer R. Littlejohn will travel to Colombo, Sri Lanka, Chennai, India, New Delhi, India, and Malé, Maldives from August 17 to August 31.

During her visit, she will discuss nature and marine conservation, plastic and air pollution, the climate crisis, deforestation, nature crimes, civil and commercial space activities, promoting women and girls in STEM, and the sustainable blue economy, said the US Department of State.

In Sri Lanka from August 19 to 21, Jennifer R. Littlejohn will meet with government officials and partners, visit U.S.-supported wildlife protection projects and explore opportunities for connecting Sri Lankans with U.S. experts in priority areas, such as hydrography and climate change.

In India from August 21 to 28, she will engage government officials on collaboration on scientific research, space exploration, combatting wildlife trafficking, and – in Chennai – support for river restoration through the Ambassador’s Water Experts Program.

The US acting Assistant Secretary will also meet with businesses and research organizations focusing on green technology, environmental civil society representatives, and academics working on climate resilience and clean energy projects.

She will conclude her trip in Maldives from August 28 to 30, where she will engage with government and civil society partners to discuss joint efforts on climate resilience, environmental protection, and marine and wildlife conservation.-UNB