World Bank MD in town

World Bank Managing Director Sri Mulyani Indrawati will visit Sri Lanka from 15-19 November to find out how the development institution can do more to support the country’s progress, the World Bank’s Colombo office announced today.

“Sri Lanka has made great strides in overcoming poverty as it transitions from a lower income to a middle income country. Sri Lanka is working hard to consolidate social inclusion, peace, and security and we want to help its people build on that success so that everyone has a chance to reach their potential,” Indrawati said. “I am looking forward to visiting Sri Lanka to discuss how we can strengthen our partnership with the Government to address national priorities and create opportunities for its people.”

Indrawati is one of the three Managing Directors of the World Bank. She is responsible for the institution’s operations in all regions of the world. In addition, she oversees other administrative vice-presidencies and functions, including the Integrity Vice Presidency, Sanctions Board Secretariat, and the Office of Evaluation and Suspension.

The main focus of Indrawati’s visit will be to discuss the private sector investment climate in Sri Lanka. She will meet President Mahinda Rajapaksa and also a few other senior officials in the Government. She will also take time to meet with the private sector, civil society representatives, a team from the Opposition, and the media.

The World Bank also confirms that a trip to the north has been planned as a field visit for Indrawati in order for her to understand the achievements and challenges with regards to resettlement of the displaced persons and the reconstruction agenda.

She will be accompanied by Country Director Diarietou Gaye in all her official meetings with the Government of Sri Lanka and her visit to the north.