IMF Chief Urges Continuation of Reforms for Sustainable Growth

19-Feb-2026

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IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva stressed the importance of continuing reforms to ensure strong and sustainable growth that benefits all, during discussions with President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.

During a meeting at the Presidential Secretariat on 17 February, the President thanked the IMF for its support in achieving economic stability, noting that this stability enabled Sri Lanka to successfully face the major disaster caused by Cyclone Ditwah.

He emphasized that the government avoided mixing politics with the economy during the crisis and that the next goal is to ensure that the benefits of economic progress reach the public.

The President noted that low-income rural communities were the most affected by the disaster and that the government has planned a comprehensive program for their economic and human development, while expecting continued IMF support.

The IMF confirmed that emergency financial assistance had been provided for disaster relief and praised the government’s swift response and commitment to recovery. Both sides reaffirmed close cooperation to achieve economic growth based on macroeconomic stability.