The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has signalled support for Sri Lanka in the wake of Cyclone Ditwah, confirming that Colombo’s request for rapid financial assistance is now under review.

IMF Mission Chief for Sri Lanka, Evan Papageorgiou, said in a statement that the Fund recognises the scale of the catastrophe and stands with the Sri Lankan people as the country confronts widespread destruction.

He noted that the government has sought around US$200 million through the Rapid Financing Instrument (RFI), amounting to 26 per cent of Sri Lanka’s IMF quota. The request must still be assessed and approved by the IMF Executive Board.

Papageorgiou added that the Fund remains in close contact with Sri Lankan authorities throughout the crisis and is committed to assisting the country’s immediate recovery and long-term resilience efforts.