Harsha denies requesting meeting with IMF, says ‘Don’t play politics with our economy’

Harsha denies requesting meeting with IMF, says ‘Don’t play politics with our economy’

March 15, 2024   12:36 pm

Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) MP Dr. Harsha de Silva has refuted recent claims that he requested for a meeting with the visiting delegation of the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

Taking to ‘X’ (formerly Twitter) in response to a statement made by State Minister of Finance Shehan Semasinghe, the SJB MP stated that he had merely requested for the Opposition to be involved in the External Debt Restructure (EDR).

MP Dr. Harsha de Silva further highlighted that he had made a request in this regard given the crucial importance of the Opposition being made aware of such facts and figures in the event they are elected as the next government.

“Never requested an IMF meeting (deal finalized). My request: Opposition involved in EDR (crucial for when we take over next Govt.)I have never reneged my responsibility and continue to work for #lka, even in Opp. Don’t play politics with our economy”, the MP’s statement on ‘X’ read.

On Thursday night (14 March), State Minister of Finance Shehan Semasinghe revealed that the government is ready to discuss with the Opposition the progress of the discussions with Sri Lanka’s creditors and the programme of the IMF.

In a statement on ‘X’, Semasinghe revealed that as per the request made by MP Dr. Harsha de Silva, the government is willing to provide any additional information in this regard, however, he added that they “will not be able to disclose any market sensitive information”. 

“Although the opposition deliberately missed out the discussion facilitated with good faith on alternative proposals including debt restructuring, the government is once again ready to facilitate another opportunity”, Semasinghe said, emphasizing the importance for the opposition too, to act in good faith.

Disclaimer: All the comments will be moderated by the AD editorial. Abstain from posting comments that are obscene, defamatory or slanderous. Please avoid outside hyperlinks inside the comment and avoid typing all capitalized comments. Help us delete comments that do not follow these guidelines by flagging them(mouse over a comment and click the flag icon on the right side). Do use these forums to voice your opinions and create healthy discourse.

Most Viewed Video Stories

LIVE🔴 Ada Derana Prime Time News Bulletin 6.55 pm

LIVE🔴 Ada Derana Prime Time News Bulletin 6.55 pm

LIVE🔴 Ada Derana Lunch Time News Bulletin 12.00 pm

President Dissanayake never comments on the country's economy – Ranil (English)

To modernize the country, the parliament should also be modernized - Vijitha Herath

People still awaiting President's answer regarding 'stolen funds' hidden in Uganda - Sajith (English)

'Sarvajana Balaya' is the only political force 'alive' in Sri Lanka today - Dilith Jayaweera (English)

NPP will standardize Sri Lankan politics - President (English)

Easter attacks: SC orders to recall defence over acquittal of ex-IGP and Defence Secretary (English)