Japan has pledged US$ 2.5 million to support a new anti-corruption initiative in Sri Lanka, aimed at strengthening institutional capacity and promoting transparency in public governance.

The 3-year project will be implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and will involve close cooperation with the Sri Lankan Government to improve investigation and prosecution standards, enhance inter-agency coordination, and increase public engagement.

A formal agreement was signed at the Japanese Embassy in Colombo by Ambassador Akio Isomata and UNDP Resident Representative Azusa Kubota, in the presence of Justice Minister Harsha Nanayakkara and key officials.

The initiative also aims to empower youth, media professionals, and the broader public to take part in anti-corruption efforts, promoting long-term cultural change.