The president meets with the US Treasury Secretary for Debt Relief discussions. and Sustainable Development at the Paris Summit

President Ranil Wickremesinghe met with Ms Janet Yellen, US Treasury Secretary, yesterday (22) on the sidelines of the Paris Summit for a New Global Financing Pact. The President expressed his sincere appreciation to the United States. for its support of Sri Lanka's debt relief measures and increased financial assistance for sustainable development. President Wickremesinghe commended Secretary Yellen's leadership in this regard. Secretary Yellen reaffirmed the United States' backing. for Sri Lanka's reform agenda and requested an update on the country's progress with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) procedures. The President briefed Secretary Yellen on the current situation and highlighted the challenges faced in the debt restructuring process. Nevertheless, he said that Sri Lanka had chosen to take control of the situation and move forward with determination. President Wickremesinghe also provided an update on the ongoing discussions. with bilateral creditors. Secretary Yellen was also briefed on the Sri Lankan government's economic objectives and a climate prosperity plan. The President emphasised Sri Lanka's intention to involve the private sector in this process. The US delegation was also updated on the upcoming visit and the engagement between the two countries. In conclusion, the President extended an invitation to SecretarYellen to visit Sri Lanka.