World Bank Group President Ajay Banga arrived in Sri Lanka today, marking the first presidential visit by a World Bank chief to the island nation in nearly two decades. The high-level visit follows the recent local council elections and underscores the World Bank’s commitment to supporting Sri Lanka’s path to economic recovery and sustainable development.
Banga’s arrival comes at a pivotal time for the country, as it continues to emerge from a severe economic crisis and navigates the early political landscape shaped by the newly elected local councils. His visit was initiated at the invitation of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, who extended congratulations to Banga in a call shortly after taking office in November last year.
The visit highlights the World Bank Group’s strategic interest in strengthening its 70-year partnership with Sri Lanka. With a focus on boosting private sector engagement, creating jobs, and promoting inclusive growth, Banga is expected to reinforce the importance of continued reform and investment in key economic sectors.
During his stay, Banga will hold discussions with President Dissanayake, Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, and other senior government and private sector stakeholders. The talks are expected to centre on strategies to tackle poverty, attract private investment, and build a more resilient economic foundation.
The World Bank Group currently manages a $2.2 billion portfolio in Sri Lanka, encompassing projects across both the public and private sectors. Recent World Bank assessments have acknowledged the country’s progress in stabilising its economy, while emphasizing the need for sustained reforms and targeted support to vulnerable communities.
Observers see Banga’s visit as both symbolic and practical—signalling renewed confidence in Sri Lanka’s economic reform trajectory and the World Bank’s readiness to assist in implementing long-term solutions.
With the local council elections concluded, the visit also serves as an opportunity to align national development goals with grassroots governance, ensuring that economic recovery efforts translate into tangible benefits for communities across the country.
As Sri Lanka works to rebuild trust in its institutions and attract international investment, the presence of the World Bank President provides an important boost to morale and a reminder that global partners remain engaged in the island’s recovery journey.
Banga’s visit is expected to conclude with joint statements on collaborative efforts aimed at fostering inclusive growth and ensuring that the country’s hard-earned economic progress is both equitable and sustainable.
