Pradeep Saputhanthri, Secretary to the Prime Minister, participated in the World Bank Group’s Global Digital Summit 2025, held from March 17 to 20 at the World Bank headquarters in Washington, D.C.
This year’s summit, themed “Digital Pathways for All,” brought together global leaders, development partners, and private sector experts to explore innovative digital solutions for economic and social progress, according to a statement from the Prime Minister’s Media Division.
The summit provided key insights for Sri Lanka’s digitalization initiatives, spearheaded under the leadership of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake. Saputhanthri engaged with global experts to examine emerging technologies and strategies for inclusive and sustainable digital transformation in Sri Lanka.
High-Level Meetings with IMF and World Bank
On the sidelines of the summit, Saputhanthri met with key IMF and World Bank officials, including:
-
Kenji Okamura, Deputy Managing Director, IMF
-
Dr. Krishnamoorthy Subramanian, Executive Director, IMF
-
Dr. Krishna Srinivasan, Director, Asia and Pacific Department, IMF
-
Dr. PKG Harischandra, Alternate Executive Director, IMF
During these discussions, Saputhanthri provided an update on Sri Lanka’s Extended Fund Facility (EFF), following the successful Third Review in February 2025. He reaffirmed Sri Lanka’s commitment to meeting upcoming EFF milestones and expressed gratitude for the IMF’s continued support.
Talks also covered Sri Lanka’s digital transformation initiatives, including efforts to support vulnerable communities, enhance tax efficiency, and boost economic productivity.
Additionally, Saputhanthri met with Martin Raiser, Vice President for the South Asia Region at the World Bank, to discuss future financial and technical support for Sri Lanka’s economic recovery and long-term development. Raiser reaffirmed the World Bank’s commitment to assisting Sri Lanka’s growth and stability.
