ADB Re-affirms Long-Term Support and Recovery Aid for Sri Lanka 📈

The newly appointed Asian Development Bank (ADB) Country Director, Ms. Shannon Cowlin, met with President Anura Kumara Dissanayake to reaffirm the Bank’s commitment to Sri Lanka’s development and post-disaster recovery. • Strategic Commitment & Support • ADB expressed satisfaction with current program implementation and institutional coordination. • Ongoing assistance includes budgetary support and planned investments for 2026 and beyond. • A high-level visit by the ADB President is scheduled for mid-2026 to further solidify the partnership. • Disaster Recovery & Resilience • A primary focus was placed on response and recovery following Cyclone Ditwah. • Reconstruction efforts will prioritize strengthening national resilience against climate-induced disasters. • Inclusive & Sustainable Growth • President Dissanayake emphasized "People-Centred Growth," ensuring economic progress reaches vulnerable regions. • Priority given to restoring ecosystems and protecting water sources in the Central Highlands to support sustainable livelihoods. • Focus areas include digitalization of public services and enhancing the energy sector's sustainability. • Institutional Context • To date, ADB has committed US$ 12.7 Bn (499 projects) to Sri Lanka. • Recent approvals include US$ 100 Mn for financial stability and US$ 100 Mn for macroeconomic resilience (late 2025).