IMF releases $216.6 million for Lanka

3 February 2011 01:45 am

The IMF said Wednesday it was releasing $216.6 million in financing for Sri Lanka, applauding the government for strengthening the economy and macro-economic management.

It was the latest disbursement of an 18-month, $2.6 billion facility to help the island nation rebuild after the end of a decades-long conflict with Tamil rebels.

The total disbursed, after Wednesday's announcement, is $1.5 billion.

"The Sri Lankan authorities have made good progress under the Fund-supported programme and macroeconomic developments continue to be favourable," IMF deputy managing director Naoyuki Shinohara said in a statement.

"Growth is strengthening; inflation remains in check, despite some pressure in food and energy prices; and imports have recovered." (AFP)