A delegation from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) met with the Speaker, Deputy Speaker, and Party Leaders of Parliament on Thursday (02), ahead of the upcoming Fifth and Sixth Review Mission, scheduled to take place from 26 March to 8 April. 

The visiting delegation was led by Evan Papageorgiou, Deputy Division Chief, accompanied by senior IMF economists. 

During discussions, Speaker Dr. Jagath Wickramaratne expressed appreciation for the IMF’s continued support to Sri Lanka during its economic recovery. 

He noted that the Tenth Parliament is a strong and inclusive legislature with a two-thirds majority and diverse representation, including members of the differently-abled community. Reaffirming Sri Lanka’s commitment to the IMF’s Extended Fund Facility (EFF) programme, the Speaker stressed the importance of maintaining sound fiscal and monetary policies.

He highlighted key legislative measures such as the Public Financial Management Act and the Anti-Corruption Act, describing them as vital to ensuring fiscal discipline, transparency, and good governance. Strengthening public financial accountability and tightening anti-corruption mechanisms were also emphasised.

The Speaker outlined plans to establish a Parliamentary Study Centre to enhance the capacity of Members of Parliament and local government representatives, and sought IMF support for capacity-building initiatives.

Papageorgiou stated that Sri Lanka’s performance under the EFF programme remains strong and that the country is on a positive economic trajectory. He underscored the crucial role of Parliament in safeguarding legislation and overseeing policy, encouraging continued support for reform efforts. The discussion also touched on the impact of Middle East tensions on Sri Lanka’s economy and ongoing relief and reconstruction following Cyclone Ditwah.

The IMF delegation later met Party Leaders at a session chaired by Deputy Speaker Rizvie Salih. MPs Ravi Karunanayake, Dilith Jayaweera, M.L.A.M. Hizbullah, and Ramanathan Archchuna attended the meeting.

Party Leaders discussed the current economic situation, including post-cyclone recovery challenges and global uncertainties. Key areas of focus included tariff adjustments, inflation, external sector pressures, and the importance of sustained structural reforms to maintain macroeconomic stability.

The IMF delegation also took part in a guided tour of Parliament. Assistant Secretary-General Hansa Abeyratne (Attorney-at-Law) and other Parliamentary officials were present.