News Today: President leads IMF extended credit facility review Sri Lanka discussions

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake met with representatives of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) yesterday at the Presidential Secretariat to discuss the upcoming review of the IMF extended credit facility review Sri Lanka agreement.

During the meeting, President Dissanayake noted that Sri Lanka has reached a point of economic stability under his administration. He emphasized the government’s readiness to accelerate reforms and integrate Sri Lanka into the global economy, aiming for sustainable growth and the exploration of emerging economic opportunities.

The President acknowledged the challenges the country continues to face and underlined the need to ease public burdens in the 2026 Budget, despite ongoing constraints. He also discussed policy reforms and tariff concessions aimed at fostering a more investor-friendly environment.

President Dissanayake expressed appreciation for the support extended by the IMF and reiterated his commitment to ensuring that the benefits of economic progress are passed on to the public.

The IMF delegation, led by Mission Chief for Sri Lanka Evan Papageorgiou, included Sandesh Dhungana, Ursula Wiriadinata, Dinar Prihardini, Samson Kwalingana, and Ozlem Aydin. Resident Representatives Martha Woldemichael and Manavee Abeyawickrama were also present.

The IMF representatives commended the government’s efforts under President Dissanayake’s leadership and agreed to continue supporting Sri Lanka’s economic recovery and long-term stability.

Key Sri Lankan officials in attendance included Labour and Economic Development Deputy Minister Dr. Anil Jayantha Fernando; President’s Secretary Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake; Central Bank Governor Dr. Nandalal Weerasinghe; Treasury Secretary Dr. Harshana Suriyapperuma; and several senior economic advisors and Central Bank officials.

This meeting marks a significant step in aligning Sri Lanka’s economic strategy with international expectations, reinforcing the country’s commitment to transparency, policy consistency, and global economic integration.