Sri Lanka’s Road to Recovery: A Candid Chat with President Wickremesinghe
From tsunamis to terror attacks, Sri Lanka has weathered decades of challenges. Now, battling its worst economic crisis, the island nation is banking on partnerships and reforms to bounce back. President Ranil Wickremesinghe sat down with NewspaperAmigo.com during his recent China trip to share his vision.
By the Numbers: The Economic Storm 📉
With GDP shrinking 7.8% in 2022 and another 2% dip expected this year, Sri Lanka’s debt restructuring process is ‘priority number one’, says the President. ‘We’re rebuilding trust in our institutions while ensuring essentials reach our people,’ he added.
Belt and Road: A Modern-Day Rubber-Rice Pact? 🌾
Wickremesinghe compared China’s BRI to Sri Lanka’s historic 1952 deal swapping rubber for rice: ‘Both initiatives are about fairness and mutual growth. The Hambantota Port partnership? It’s straight-up common sense – we needed infrastructure, they had expertise.’
Pushing Back on ‘Debt-Trap’ Drama 🚫
Addressing Western criticism of Chinese projects, the President was blunt: ‘Every decision serves Sri Lanka’s interests. Calling this a trap disrespects our sovereignty.’ He highlighted ongoing talks with multiple international lenders for relief packages.
What’s Next? 🔮
With 70% of 2023’s budget allocated to social welfare, the government eyes tech-driven agriculture and tourism comebacks. ‘Youth will lead our digital transformation,’ Wickremesinghe promised, nodding to Sri Lanka’s 90%+ literacy rate.
