Colombo, Sri Lanka – Sajith Premadasa, the presidential candidate of the ‘Samagi Jana Sandhanaya’ and opposition leader, has reaffirmed his commitment to amending Sri Lanka’s agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) if elected as President. He criticized the existing agreement for its lack of focus on economic growth.
Speaking at the National Visionary Summit in Colombo, which was organized by the National Council of Professionals, Premadasa emphasized that a government’s economic strategy should extend beyond just debt sustainability. He highlighted the need to focus on broader areas, including trade, to foster a more robust and inclusive economic environment.
Premadasa expressed concerns that the current agreement between the IMF and the Sri Lankan government, which aims for a 3.1% economic growth by 2029, is insufficient. He argued that such a low growth target would not be enough to secure long-term economic stability and prosperity for the country.
“We must align our economy towards growth—not just any growth, but tradable growth. It is essential to ensure that we achieve shared prosperity,” Premadasa stated. He stressed that while debt sustainability is important, it should not be the only focus of economic policies.
He also reaffirmed his party’s commitment to continuing with necessary reforms, emphasizing that the Samagi Jana Balawegaya is dedicated to pursuing policies that promote both economic growth and equity.
Premadasa’s remarks come as part of his broader campaign platform, which positions him as a candidate focused on economic reform and development, particularly in the context of Sri Lanka’s ongoing negotiations with international financial institutions.
