ADB country director presents credentials to Foreign Minister

The Asian Development Bank’s (ADB) newly appointed Country Director for Sri Lanka, Ms. Shannon Cowlin, presented her credentials to Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism, Vijitha Herath, on February 10, 2026, at the Ministry.

Welcoming Ms. Cowlin, Minister Herath expressed Sri Lanka’s appreciation for the strong support extended by the ADB during the country’s recent economic challenges. He noted that Sri Lanka looks forward to continuing its close and multifaceted partnership with the Bank in support of the national development agenda.

The Minister also thanked the ADB for the USD 3 million grant assistance provided following Cyclone Ditwah in December 2025, highlighting the importance of timely international support during emergencies.

In response, Ms. Cowlin reaffirmed the ADB’s commitment to further strengthening collaboration with Sri Lanka, with a focus on sustainable and inclusive development.

Discussions during the meeting reviewed the long-standing partnership between Sri Lanka and the ADB, particularly in key sectors such as energy, transport, health, education, infrastructure, trade and tourism, and the Bank’s continued support for Sri Lanka’s development priorities.