The UN Assistant Secretary-General and UNDP Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific has committed to strengthening development assistance for Sri Lanka, meeting with senior government officials to discuss economic recovery and investment opportunities.
A senior United Nations development official has pledged increased support for Sri Lanka's ongoing economic recovery during an official visit to the country. Kanni Wignaraja, UN Assistant Secretary-General and Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific at the United Nations Development Programme, met with Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath and other key government figures on Monday to discuss areas of mutual cooperation.
Wignaraja commended the government's recovery initiatives, noting that the positive momentum and improved global outlook for Sri Lanka are critical for attracting foreign investment and reviving the tourism sector. She indicated that the UNDP is prepared to expand its partnership with the country through a new development programme framework covering 2028-2032, according to a statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The discussions encompassed multiple development priorities, including digital transformation, renewable energy expansion, support for small and medium enterprises, workforce skills development, climate finance mechanisms such as green and blue bonds, healthcare improvements, and tourism promotion. During her visit, Wignaraja also held consultations with Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, Deputy Minister of Digital Economy Eranga Weeraratne, and representatives from multilateral development partners.
The UNDP has maintained a development partnership with Sri Lanka exceeding 55 years, providing assistance across sustainable economic development, governance, climate action, and disaster resilience. The organization recently supported communities affected by Cyclone Ditwah through recovery and resilience initiatives.
