Sri Lanka is set to receive a critical lifeline of USD 350 million from the International Monetary Fund within two weeks, marking the sixth tranche of the Extended Fund Facility. The announcement came as international development partners reaffirmed strong support for the nation’s relief and recovery efforts following the devastating impact of Cyclone Ditwah.

The pledge was made during a high-level donor forum convened by the Ministry of Finance, bringing together diplomatic missions, multilateral lenders, and bilateral partners to coordinate emergency assistance and long-term rehabilitation.

The meeting was co-chaired by the Governor of the Central Bank and the Secretary to the Treasury, with participation from senior government officials.

Presenting an overview of the cyclone’s extensive damage across housing, infrastructure, agriculture, and essential services, the Treasury Secretary stressed the urgent need to shift from emergency response to a structured recovery framework. He called for rapid humanitarian aid—food supplies, grants, concessional financing, and short- to medium-term assistance—to stabilize affected communities

The Central Bank Governor highlighted the importance of external financial support, citing limited domestic borrowing capacity amid contracting economic sectors. Authorities also urged partners to promote international engagement and revive tourism to accelerate economic recovery.

Development partners responded with strong commitments. Several countries have already deployed disaster relief teams and pledged immediate assistance, including emergency healthcare, clean drinking water, hygiene kits, and medical supplies to prevent disease outbreaks.

Partners also agreed to repurpose existing loan facilities for medium-term rehabilitation of roads, bridges, irrigation systems, and transport networks, while exploring new loan and grant packages for long-term development.

The World Bank has initiated a rapid post-disaster assessment, and discussions are underway for a comprehensive damage and needs analysis to mobilize funding for housing, infrastructure, and livelihoods.

Sri Lanka expressed deep gratitude for the proactive engagement and solidarity of its international partners as the nation works to restore essential services, assist affected families, and rebuild stronger.