Sri Lanka’s Performance a Success Story, Says IMF Managing Director

20-Feb-2026

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International Monetary Fund Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva has described Sri Lanka’s performance under the IMF’s Extended Fund Facility (EFF) program as a success story. She expressed confidence that if the necessary structural reforms are implemented and sustained, Sri Lanka will achieve strong and sustained economic growth.

Amid Sri Lanka’s recovery from the severe economic crisis that intensified in 2022 and the challenges that emerged following the ‘Tithva’ cyclone in November last year, Georgieva undertook a three-day official visit to the country.

As part of her engagements, she visited the Central Bank on 17 February and met with Governor Dr. Nandalal Weerasinghe and senior officials.

Her visit coincided with the 75th anniversary of Sri Lanka’s membership in the IMF and the 75th anniversary of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka.

During discussions, Governor Weerasinghe expressed appreciation for the IMF’s support under the EFF program, particularly for its strong cooperation in completing the debt restructuring process and assisting Sri Lanka’s recovery from its worst economic crisis. He also thanked the IMF for its technical assistance in monetary policy and financial sector reforms.

In response, Georgieva reiterated that Sri Lanka’s performance under the EFF program stands as a success story. 

She acknowledged the Central Bank’s role in restoring macroeconomic stability following the crisis and expressed optimism that sustained structural reforms would enable the country to achieve high levels of growth despite recent setbacks.