Representatives from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) have met with Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya today (30) at Temple Trees to review Sri Lanka's economic progress and discuss the country's priorities for the next phase of development.
During the meeting, the Prime Minister expressed her appreciation for the continued support extended by the IMF to Sri Lanka over the past one and a half years, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a constructive partnership ahead, according to a statement issued by the Prime Minister's Media Division.
Prime Minister Amarasuriya noted that, amid growing global uncertainties, Sri Lanka must continuously recalibrate its direction to ensure sustainable progress.
She highlighted the need to pay particular attention to sectors that are highly influenced by global trends, including energy, ports, and agriculture, while strengthening the country's resilience to external shocks, the statement said.
The IMF representatives commended Sri Lanka's remarkable economic turnaround, acknowledging the significant progress achieved in stabilizing the economy, including the substantial reduction in inflation.
They also recognized the challenges posed by the uncertain global economic environment and assured the Government that Sri Lanka is not alone in facing these challenges. The IMF reaffirmed its readiness to continue supporting Sri Lanka through partnership in line with the country's priorities.
The discussions also focused on the importance of trade, attracting investment, strengthening social protection, promoting inclusive economic growth, and developing infrastructure.
The Prime Minister noted that economic growth and social protection must advance together, as neither can succeed in isolation, the statement said.
She noted that achieving this balance requires strong public infrastructure, particularly in areas such as waste management and sewerage systems.
The Prime Minister further underscored the importance of addressing the existing human resource gaps affecting effective service delivery, it added.
The meeting was attended by the Deputy Director, Asia and Pacific Department, IMF Sonali Jain-Chandra, IMF Mission Chief for Sri Lanka, Evan Papageorgiou, IMF Resident Representative to Sri Lanka, Martha Woldemichael, and Secretary to the Prime Minister, Pradeep Saputhanthri, Senior Deputy Governor Central Bank K. M. A. N. Daulagala and Members of Central Bank, Additional Secretary to the Prime Minister, Sagarika Bogahawatta.
