IMF MD calls on PM; commends Govt.’s efforts in stabilising economy

Thursday, 19 February 2026 02:18 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya with IMF Managing Director Dr. Kristalina Georgieva

during their meeting

Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya on Tuesday met with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) Managing Director Dr. Kristalina Georgieva and her delegation.

The PM’s office said Dr. Kristalina Georgieva, commended the Government’s efforts in stabilising the country’s economy and in managing recent economic and natural shocks. She noted that Cyclone Ditwah had caused severe impacts, especially on economically vulnerable communities, underscoring the importance of targeted support and resilience-building measures.

The Prime Minister expressed appreciation for the IMF’s continued support to Sri Lanka, particularly in the aftermath of Cyclone Ditwah. The Prime Minister further emphasised that real economic recovery and development must directly benefit economically vulnerable groups and ensure inclusive growth, highlighting the need for Sri Lanka to attract quality and sustainable investments, particularly in the tourism sector.

Both sides discussed the importance of reforming the education system to focus not only on knowledge acquisition but also on skills development and employability.

The occasion was attended by the IMF managing Director’s Chief of Staff Andreas Bauer, Asia and Pacific Department Director Dr. Krishna Srinivasan, Division Chief (Strategic Communications), Communications Department Pierre Mejlak, Resident Representative for Sri Lanka Dr. Martha Woldemichael, Central Bank Governor Dr. P. Nandalal Weerasinghe and Deputy Governor Dr. C. Amarasekara, Secretary to the Prime Minister Pradeep Saputhanthri , Additional Secretary to the Prime Minister Sagarika Bogahawatta.