President Sirisena thanked the World Bank for its assistance to Sri Lanka and emphasized the importance of Sri Lanka receiving the cooperation of the international community towards Sri Lanka as a middle income country in its efforts to elevate living standards of the people. Although there seems to be some irregularities in the utilization of funds channeled for projects in the past he assured that the new government will utilize funds in a more transparent manner and take firm steps to prevent any malpractice.

The government is appreciative of the assistance given to projects relating to uplift the living standards of the people, development of the children, drinking water supply and sanitation projects. He also said it is a top priority of the government to prevent kidney disease by providing clean drinking water and sought World Bank’s support in this endeavour.

Ms. Dixon said World Bank is committed to provide financial assistance in two key areas; poverty alleviation and accelerating the development in Sri Lanka. She further said the Bank is willing to assist Sri Lanka to control unemployment by implementing projects for skill development among the youths in the country.

Director (Asia-Pacific) of the International Finance Corporation (IFC), Mr. Vivek Pathak, Country Director of the World Bank, Ms. Francoise Clottes and Country Manager Mr. Adam Sack accompanied Ms. Dixon during the discussion. Secretary to the President Mr. P. B. Abekoon, Advisors to the President Dr. Jayantha Dhanapala and Dr. Wickrama Weerasuriya and Director General of the Ministry of Finance and Planning Mr. R. M. P. Rathnayake were also present at the discussion.