SL in talks with AIIB for US$ 100mn emergency funding

Finance Minister also seeks forex liqudity support for State banks

The China-based Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) has expressed its willingness to grant US$ 100 million emergency funding to Sri Lanka.

Finance Miniser Ali Sabry on May 6 held virtual talks with AIIB President Jin Liqun in this regard, a Finance Ministry statement said.

Sri Lanka’s Ambassador to China Dr. Palitha Kohona and the Treasury Secretary Mahinda Siriwardena along with several Finance Ministry officials also took part in the meeting. “A discussion was held regarding immediate emergency support to Sri Lanka and Liqun stated that in AIIB was considering the granting of US$ 100 million to Sri Lanka in principle and he will discuss it further with the Board,” the Finance Ministry statemet said.

The two parties also discussed regarding the medium to long term support to Sri Lanka.

“Minister Ali Sabry discussed the need for forex liquidity support for the State banks of Sri Lanka and requested if such can be provided by AIIB,” the Finance Ministry statement said.

AIIB President Liqun had assured that AIIB would continue to work with Sri Lanka and support Sri Lanka to overcome its present issues.