The Cabinet has approved obtaining a USD 100 million financing facility from the International Development Association (IDA) of the World Bank Group for the Integrated Regional Development Programme aimed at accelerating sustainable regional development and economic growth in Sri Lanka’s Northern and Eastern Provinces.
The USD 100 million allocation has been set aside for the programme from the USD 1 billion in financing to be provided to Sri Lanka by the World Bank Group during the 2026–2031 period.
The programme aims to strengthen sectors with economic potential, promote micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), improve livelihoods and economic opportunities for communities, and enhance the competitiveness of the Northern and Eastern Provinces.
Following prior approval granted by the Cabinet on February 9, 2026, negotiations on the financing agreement between the Government of Sri Lanka and the World Bank Group have also been successfully concluded.
Accordingly, the Cabinet approved a proposal submitted by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, in his capacity as Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, to enter into the necessary financing agreements to obtain the facility.
