AKD says IMF not external partner but integral element of SL’s economic progress

Wednesday, 8 October 2025 00:30 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

President Disanayake (right) shares point with IMF Mission Chief Evan Papageorgiou

Meets IMF delegation in 5th mid-point review; 6th tranche under EFF program due in Dec.
President says committed to IMF program, reforms for long-term stability, inclusive growth, and investor confidence
Says imperative for Govt. to exceed IMF targets

President Anura Kumara Disanayake yesterday said that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) remains a vital partner in Sri Lanka’s accelerated journey from crisis to recovery, and that the Government regards its support not merely as external assistance, but as an integral element of its comprehensive strategy for sustainable economic progress.

This is according to statement issued by the President’s Media Division yesterday.

Speaking at the fifth mid-point review meeting yesterday at the Presidential Secretariat with an IMF delegation, the President said that the Government’s reform agenda focused on long-term stability, inclusive growth, and investor confidence.

The sixth tranche of the IMF Extended Fund Facility is scheduled for release in December.

During the discussions, the IMF delegation commended Sri Lanka’s reform progress, noting that the country’s economic reform program is yielding commendable outcomes. They highlighted that reforms were bearing fruit, with economic growth outperforming expectations, foreign reserves strengthening, and fiscal revenues improving.

The IMF further observed that sustaining reform momentum is critical to safeguarding macroeconomic stability, consolidating recovery, and building resilience against global uncertainties, including trade policy shifts and geopolitical tensions.

President Disanayake noted that attracting investments plays a decisive role in the Government’s economic expansion drive, particularly in driving rural development and creating employment opportunities.

He said that while the IMF’s continued support has been instrumental in restoring confidence and stability, ensuring robust infrastructure and a conducive investment environment was vital for sustaining growth.

The President also said that to maintain the Government’s projected growth targets, it was imperative for Sri Lanka to exceed the targets set by the IMF, which requires a strong inflow of foreign direct investments (FDIs). He stated that achieving this will demand continued fiscal discipline, policy consistency, and strategic facilitation of investment opportunities across key sectors.

Reaffirming Sri Lanka’s commitment to reform and recovery, President Disanayake told the IMF delegation that his Government was determined to build a resilient, investment-driven economy that ensures inclusive national development. He noted that the IMF remains a key strategic partner in Sri Lanka’s ongoing journey toward financial stability, economic resilience, and sustainable growth.

The IMF delegation was led by Mission Chief Evan Papageorgiou, Sri Lanka Resident Representative Martha Woldemichael, and IMF officials Sandesh Dhungana, Ursula Wiriadinata, Dinar Prihardini, Samson Kwalingana, Ozlem Aydin, Danilo Palermo, and Manavee Abeyawickrama.