The government is looking forward to the assistance of World Bank for the selected development projects carried out by it, President Maithripala Sirisena said when World Bank Vice President for the South Asia Region Anette Dixon called on him yesterday. Responding immediately to the President's request, the World Bank Vice President expressed the global lending agency's readiness to provide financial assistance required by Sri Lanka. She commended the new government's efforts to strengthen democratic institutions and speed up development.
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), Vivek Pathak, World Bank Country Director Ms. Francoise Clottes and Country Manager Adam Sack accompanied Ms. Dixon during the discussion.
Secretary to the President P. B. Abekoon, Advisors to the President Dr. Jayantha Dhanapala and Dr. Wickrama Weerasooria and Finance and Planning Ministry Director General R. M. P. Rathnayake were also present at the discussion.
From Daily News http://www.dailynews.lk/?q=local/world-bank-pledges-support-govts-development-drive
