President Anura Kumara Dissanayake held a virtual meeting with World Bank Group President Ajay Banga on Wednesday (27) to outline Sri Lanka’s future development priorities, according to the President’s Media Division (PMD).

President Banga reaffirmed the World Bank’s commitment to supporting Sri Lanka through financial and technical assistance in areas such as education, healthcare, social protection, and economic growth. He also highlighted promoting job creation and addressing key development challenges.

Discussions covered various initiatives, including climate action, agriculture, water management, social inclusion, and digital transformation. President Dissanayake pointed out the government’s focus on poverty alleviation, particularly in rural areas, and increasing government revenue through digitalization and strengthening sectors like tourism, energy, and maritime industries.

The President also noted the importance of vocational education and advancing development in the Northern and Eastern provinces, focusing on education, healthcare, and workforce readiness.

President Banga revealed that Sri Lanka has been chosen as one of 20 countries to host an integrated South Asia office, which will open in July 2025. This initiative will enhance coordination among key World Bank Group institutions.

Deputy Ministers Prof. Anil Jayantha and Dr. Harshana Suriyapperuma were also part of the discussions.