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He said, "We must not only fulfil goals set forth but also surpass them. Let us orient ourselves to a new export economy enabling us to sustain our social services without fail"
Photo Credit : Agencies
Amid the economic crisis in the island nation, Sri Lanka has taken the first step towards recovery by reaching a staff-level agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), said Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe on Thursday.
The international body has pledged to support an economic recovery plan that will ensure that social-sector spending will not be affected by economic setbacks, he tweeted.
Wickremesinghe also added that Sri Lanka is poised to take a historic step forward by reducing a heavy debt burden and emerging from bankruptcy.
"This new beginning will ensure that we maintain social standards and improve export-oriented industries while taking care of vulnerable groups," said the President.
A self-aware Wickremesinghe said that the road ahead will be difficult but as we continue, we will make progress. It's our commitment that matters now.
He said, "We must not only fulfil goals set forth but also surpass them. Let us orient ourselves to a new export economy enabling us to sustain our social services without fail."
He thanked the visiting IMF team and all officials who were involved in the discussions to achieve this agreement.
"We look forward to continuing discussions on IMF support for Sri Lanka and a comprehensive economic reform program," he tweeted.