The World Bank Group’s President Ajay Banga is expected to visit Sri Lanka today (7), making it the first time a president from the multilateral will be visiting the country in almost 20 years, a statement released by the Group yesterday said.

“Ajay Banga will visit Sri Lanka on Wednesday, 7 May, the first presidential visit to the country by a World Bank Group president in nearly 20 years. The visit comes at a critical moment, as Sri Lanka continues its path toward economic recovery and seeks to build a more resilient, inclusive, and private sector-led future,” the statement said.

According to the statement, Banga will be visiting the country following an invitation from President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, which was extended during a congratulatory call between the two leaders shortly after his appointment last November.

“Mr. Banga’s trip reflects the strong and enduring partnership between the World Bank Group and Sri Lanka, which spans more than 70 years. His visit will focus on supporting job creation, boosting private investment, and driving an inclusive and sustainable economic recovery for the country.”

Banga is to meet President Dissanayake, Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya, and senior government and private sector leaders.

“These discussions will centre on how Sri Lanka can overcome current challenges and seize new opportunities as it continues to recover economically and socially.”

The statement adds that the World Bank Group currently supports Sri Lanka through a portfolio of projects worth $ 2.2 billion, including both public and private sector investments.

“Recent World Bank reports have noted Sri Lanka’s progress but also stressed the importance of tackling poverty and maintaining reform momentum to ensure long-term success.”