Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya today participated in the launch of the Sri Lanka AgriConnect Joint Implementation Plan in Colombo, an initiative aimed at modernising the country’s agricultural sector through digital technology and strengthening its contribution to the national economy.
AgriConnect is a World Bank Group initiative being implemented through a partnership involving the Government of Sri Lanka, the World Bank Group and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD). The programme seeks to transform smallholder farming, generate employment opportunities and contribute to global food security.
The Sri Lanka AgriConnect Joint Implementation Plan was officially unveiled at the event, which was attended by Minister of Agriculture, Livestock, Land and Irrigation K.D. Lalkantha, alongside representatives of the World Bank Group and IFAD.
Addressing the gathering, Prime Minister Amarasuriya said the future of Sri Lanka’s agricultural sector was closely connected to the country’s overall economic prospects. She stressed that supporting farmers, strengthening food systems and creating more opportunities in rural communities were essential to building economic resilience and achieving sustainable development.
She described AgriConnect Sri Lanka as an important milestone in transforming the country’s agrifood sector into a more productive, resilient and competitive contributor to economic growth.
The Prime Minister also highlighted the importance of bringing together the Government, development partners, the private sector and farming communities to achieve these objectives.
Referring to the Government’s Public Investment Programme for 2027–2031, she revealed that approximately Rs. 17.5 trillion had been allocated for public investment over the five-year period, including around Rs. 8.3 trillion to support the country’s transition towards a production-based economy.
She explained that these investments would focus on strengthening agriculture, industry, tourism, innovation and digital transformation, while developing the infrastructure needed to improve productivity, attract investment and create quality employment opportunities nationwide.
The Prime Minister further emphasised that embracing technology, innovation and strategic partnerships in agriculture was essential to building a stronger farming sector and securing sustainable economic growth for Sri Lanka, according to the Prime Minister’s Office.
