IMF delegation meets Speaker and party leaders in Parliament, discuss key issues
April 2, 2026 06:38 pm
A delegation from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) met with the Speaker, Deputy Speaker, and Party Leaders of Parliament in preparation for the upcoming IMF Fifth and Sixth Review Mission scheduled from March 26 to April 8, 2026.
The IMF delegation included Deputy Division Chief, Mr. Evan Papageorgiou, along with senior economists representing the IMF.
During the discussion with the Speaker Dr. Jagath Wickramaratne, the Speaker expressed his appreciation for the continued support extended by the IMF to Sri Lanka during its economic recovery process.
He emphasized that the Tenth Parliament represents a strong and inclusive legislature, holding a two-thirds majority and reflecting the diversity of the country, including representation for the disabled community, the statement said.
The Speaker reaffirmed Sri Lanka’s full commitment to the IMF’s Extended Fund Facility (EFF) programme and underscored the importance of maintaining sound monetary and fiscal policies.
He highlighted key legislative measures such as the Public Financial Management Act and the Anti-Corruption Act, noting that these frameworks are central to ensuring fiscal discipline and good governance.
Special emphasis was placed on strengthening public financial transparency and implementing robust measures to combat bribery and corruption, the statement added.
The Speaker also outlined plans to establish a Parliamentary Study Centre aimed at enhancing the capacity of Members of Parliament and local government representatives. He sought IMF support for capacity-building initiatives in this regard, it said.
Mr. Papageorgiou noted that Sri Lanka’s performance under the EFF programme remains strong, indicating that the country is on a positive economic trajectory. He emphasized the critical role of Parliament as the guardian of legislation and policy oversight, encouraging continued support to sustain reform momentum.
Discussions also covered the potential impact of ongoing Middle East conflicts on Sri Lanka’s economic outlook, as well as the implementation of relief, recovery, and reconstruction efforts following Cyclone Ditwah.
Subsequently, the IMF delegation met with Party Leaders at a meeting presided over by the Deputy Speaker Dr. Rizvie Salih. Members of Parliament Ravi Karunanayake, Dilith Jayaweera, Dr. M.L.A.M. Hizbullah, and Dr. Ramanathan Archchuna were present at this meeting.
During this session, Party Leaders exchanged views on the current economic landscape, including post-cyclone recovery challenges and global economic uncertainties.
Discussions focused on key issues such as tariff adjustments, inflation management, external sector pressures, and the need for sustained structural reforms to ensure macroeconomic stability.
The IMF delegation also participated in a guided parliamentary tour, according to the statement.
Assistant Secretary General Mr. Hansa Abeyratne (Attorney at Law) and a group of Parliamentary officials were also present at the meetings.
