IMF Mission Chief Meets Prime Minister Amarasuriya, Reviews Reform Progress

COLOMBO (News 1st) - The International Monetary Fund’s Mission Chief for Sri Lanka, Evan Papageorgiou, met with Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya at Temple Trees.

During the discussion, Papageorgiou commended the government’s ongoing reform program, particularly the measures taken to strengthen governance and curb corruption.

He also highlighted the importance of tax policy reforms and steps taken to reduce tax exemptions.

Special attention was drawn to the allocation of resources for the social protection system under the upcoming 2026 National Budget, which Papageorgiou welcomed as a significant step forward.

Prime Minister Dr. Amarasuriya emphasized that the 2026 Budget would be people-centered, focusing on empowering citizens while ensuring that economic progress aligns with public needs. 

She noted that attracting quality investment remains a top priority for the government.

The Prime Minister further stressed that strengthening social protection is essential for safeguarding vulnerable communities and ensuring long-term sustainability.

Outlining the government’s priorities for the upcoming budget, Dr. Amarasuriya stated that special focus will be placed on:

Enhancing rural economic participation through small and medium-sized enterprises, Accelerating digitalization, Advancing infrastructure development, Promoting sustainable growth in tourism, and Strengthening the agriculture sector.