Mr. Papageorgiou commended the Government’s commitment to the ongoing reform programme, noting in particular the measures to strengthen governance and reduce corruption. He also recognized the importance of tax policy reforms, especially with regard to exemptions, and welcomed the allocation of resources in the 2026 national budget for the social protection system..
The Prime Minister stressed that economic progress must align with the needs of the people and emphasized the Government’s priority of attracting quality investments. Dr. Amarasuriya also highlighted that while strengthening social protection is vital, empowering economically vulnerable groups is essential to ensure long-term sustainability.
Outlining priorities of the forthcoming national budget, the Prime Minister emphasized measures to increase rural economic participation particularly through the SME sector accelerate digitalization, advance infrastructure development, foster qualitative improvements in the tourism sector, and strengthen agriculture.
The meeting was attended by senior officials from both sides. The IMF delegation included Ms. Martha Woldemichael, Resident Representative; Ms. Manavee Abeyawickrama, Economist, IMF Resident Representative Office for Sri Lanka; and representatives from the Central Bank of Sri Lanka: Dr. C. Amarasekara, Assistant Governor; Dr. P. K. G. Harishchandra, Alternate Executive Director; Dr. L. R. C. Pathberiya, Additional Director of Economic Research; and Dr. V. D. Wickramarachchi, Additional Director of Economic Research.
The Sri Lankan delegation was led by Mr. Pradeep Saputhanthri, Secretary to the Prime Minister, and included Ms. Sagarika Bogahawatta, Additional Secretary to the Prime Minister.
