Montana Governor Greg Gianforte, accompanied by First Lady Susan Gianforte and a delegation from the state of Montana, will visit Sri Lanka on October 9 to expand opportunities for American agricultural exports and deepen security cooperation through the Montana National Guard’s State Partnership Program.

Located in the northwestern United States, Montana is known for its wide-open landscapes, rich agricultural lands, and Rocky Mountain peaks. Montana is the leading U.S. producer of pulses such as chickpeas, lentils, and dry peas.  The delegation plans to engage with Sri Lankan pulse importers and traders to explore new markets for Montana-grown products, expand opportunities for American farmers, and strengthen commercial ties with Sri Lankan businesses.

“From Montana’s farms to Sri Lanka’s Indian Ocean shores, this partnership connects economic opportunity with shared security,” said U.S. Ambassador to Sri Lanka Eric Meyer.  “We look forward to welcoming Governor Gianforte, First Lady Susan Gianforte, and the Montana delegation as they open doors for American farmers and deepen cooperation that benefits both our countries.”

Brigadier General Trenton Gibson, Montana’s Adjutant General and Commander of the Montana National Guard, will accompany the Governor’s delegation to advance defense cooperation through the State Partnership Program, which has linked Montana and Sri Lanka since 2021.  In 2025, the Montana National Guard and Sri Lanka’s Ministry of Defense signed a Memorandum of Understanding to formalize and expand cooperation in disaster response, maritime domain awareness, and professional military education.

This partnership strengthens disaster readiness, maritime security, and the professional skills of military personnel while building lasting ties between Montana and Sri Lanka.  The Governor’s visit will deepen that cooperation and open new opportunities for agricultural trade.