In a joint media briefing held this afternoon (04), Minister of Foreign Affairs Ali Sabry conveyed Sri Lanka’s profound appreciation for the solidarity and assistance extended by Japan during the country’s unprecedented economic crisis in recent years.
Speaking alongside Japanese Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa, who is currently on an official visit to Sri Lanka, Ali Sabry emphasized the nation’s deep gratitude towards Japan for its pivotal role in the external debt restructuring process as a co-chair of the Official Creditor Committee (OCC), as well as for its generous grant assistance.
Highlighting Sri Lanka’s concerted efforts to stabilize the economy, enhance debt sustainability, and implement growth-oriented structural reforms, Ali Sabry remarked, “As of today, the country has not only recovered from an economic collapse but has experienced a rapid revival, showcasing the resilience and determination of the Sri Lankan people.”
Expressing optimism regarding the conclusion of the debt restructuring process in time for the next tranche of the IMF process, the Sri Lankan minister underscored Japan’s significance as a trusted partner and extended an invitation to resume Japanese investment projects in various sectors such as power, infrastructure (including port and highways sectors), dedicated investment zones, and the green and digital economy.
Acknowledging Japan’s Official Development Assistance (ODA) extended to Sri Lanka through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) over the past decades, Ali Sabry reaffirmed Japan’s status as one of Sri Lanka’s key development partners, fostering mutual growth and prosperity.
