The Japan-Sri Lanka Economic Cooperation Policy Dialogue, held on January 5 at the Finance Ministry, showcased a mutual commitment to enhancing economic ties between the two nations. Co-chaired by Finance Ministry Secretary K.M. Mahinda Siriwardana and Japan’s Foreign Affairs Ministry International Cooperation Bureau Director General Endo Kazuya, discussions centered on Japan’s funded projects and future economic prospects for Sri Lanka. Director General Endo praised Sri Lanka’s efforts for recovery and reiterated Japan’s commitment to supporting the country’s economic reforms endorsed by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) reported by Daily FT.
Key emphasis was placed on the importance of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for debt restructuring, with stress on transparency and comparability in agreements with creditors outside the Official Creditor Committee (OCC). Finance Ministry Secretary Siriwardena expressed gratitude for Japan’s unwavering support, highlighting its crucial role in Sri Lanka’s recovery from an economic crisis. The dialogue covered Japan’s ongoing economic cooperation, particularly Yen loan projects aimed at stabilizing and strengthening Sri Lanka’s economy. Director General Endo assured continued Japanese support for Sri Lanka’s recovery, while Siriwardana sought future cooperation, inviting Japanese investors to assess opportunities in Sri Lanka and contribute both technically and financially to ongoing IMF-supported reforms.
