Finance Minister says Govt. committed to MCC project

Friday, 30 August 2019 00:28 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Efforts to get proposals approved by Cabinet before Sept. to continue
Says engagement with MCC will last
Dedicated to implementing projects even during next government

Finance Minister Mangala Samaraweera yesterday said the Government remained committed to the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) project, and said they hope to take it forward despite objections from President Maithripala Sirisena.

Responding to questions, Samaraweera recalled that he had been involved in the MCC $480 million grant since its initial offer, and will attempt to get the necessary approvals before September, which is the timeline provided by the MCC to get the plans approved by Cabinet.

“We are grateful for the grant and committed to implementing the projects under agreement. We will do our best to get the proposals passed before September, but even if that is not possible we are committed to continuing our engagement with the MCC.”

The Finance Minister said that if all other options fail, the project will be implemented by the next Government, which he insisted would be formed by the United National Party (UNP).

US hopes SL will eventually approve $ 480 m grant-inclusive MCC Compact