“These tariffs may be modified upward or downward depending on our relationship with your country.”
This note, written at the end of Trump’s letter to President Anura, contains a message directed at Sri Lanka: if Sri Lanka does anything to damage its relations with the United States, it will have to face the consequences.
Meanwhile, media reports suggest that pressure was exerted on Sri Lanka to limit its trade with China in order to reduce the tariffs imposed on the country. It is also reported that after Trump announced tariffs on Sri Lanka, the Chinese Foreign Minister met with Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath in Malaysia to discuss strengthening trade relations with Sri Lanka.
Alongside Sri Lanka, Trump imposed a similar tariff rate on three other countries: Algeria, Iraq, and Libya. All were taxed at 30%. With the exception of Algeria, Iraq, Libya, and Sri Lanka share a notable similarity.
The former leaders of all three were overthrown through coups or popular uprisings. The United States directly intervened to remove Saddam Hussein in Iraq and Muammar Gaddafi in Libya. There are accusations that the United States indirectly intervened in the ousting of Gotabaya Rajapaksa and the Rajapaksa family in Sri Lanka.
In Iraq and Libya, pro-American leaders came to power following the removal of anti-American regimes. In Sri Lanka, Ranil Wickremesinghe, who succeeded Gotabaya, and the current President Anura, are seen as dealing closely with the United States.
During the last local government election, Anura stated that the US and Sri Lanka would issue a joint statement on the tariff issue. His statement suggested that he was expecting significant concessions from the United States and high-level recognition for his government.
Anura’s only direct contact with the US was via the US Ambassador to Sri Lanka, Julie Chung. She played a major role in developing relations between Anura and the United States. She also publicly expressed support for the ‘aragalaya’ (people’s uprising) against Gotabaya and the Rajapaksa family. Supporters of Gotabaya allege that his downfall was a result of following her advice. Julie and Anura reportedly grew closer during the period of the ‘aragalaya’.
Prime Minister Harini also contributed significantly to these efforts. It appears that Anura placed a great deal of trust in Julie regarding the tariff issue. Beyond that, Anura could have established direct communication with the White House. Historically, Sri Lankan leaders have had connections with the White House. One notable example is the late Harry Jayawardene, a prominent businessman.
