A U.S. private sector delegation representing the Montana State Partnership Program met with Sri Lanka’s Ambassador to the United States, Mahinda Samarasinghe, to explore substantial investment opportunities in Sri Lanka’s graphite industry.
The delegation included Lieutenant Colonel Chris Cory, Director of the Montana State Partnership Program, and Mr. James Mooney, Founder of Mooney Group LLC — a leading U.S. mining firm specializing in critical minerals. Mr. Mooney was accompanied by Ms. Mary Mooney, Managing Director of the Mooney Group, and Mr. Chris Dorrington of the Montana Department of Transportation.
During the discussions, the delegation expressed strong interest in investing in Sri Lanka’s graphite sector and leveraging their technical expertise to connect Sri Lanka’s graphite products with U.S. and global markets.
Ambassador Samarasinghe welcomed the initiative, reaffirming Sri Lanka’s commitment to facilitating and encouraging Foreign Direct Investment that promotes value-added production. He emphasized that the Expression of Interest to develop Sri Lanka’s graphite industry through technology transfer and the adoption of international safety and environmental standards marks an important step in strengthening bilateral economic ties and enhancing Sri Lanka’s position in the global critical minerals supply chain.
The Mooney Group focuses on identifying and developing mineral resources vital to the semiconductor, battery, and defense industries. The firm adopts a strategic, hands-on approach to mining and resource management, often partnering to enhance value in mineral extraction and processing. The company has also explored opportunities in Central Asia, applying its professional expertise to optimize mining operations.
Also present at the meeting were Deputy Chief of Mission Mr. Maduka Wickramarachchi, Minister of Commerce Mr. Nalinda Wijerathne, and Defence Adviser Commodore Dumindu Abeywickrama.
