Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya today participated in the launch of the Sri Lanka AgriConnect Joint Implementation Plan in Colombo, an initiative that aims to modernise the agricultural sector through digitalisation and strengthen its contribution to the national economy.
AgriConnect, a World Bank Group initiative, is being implemented through a partnership between the Government of Sri Lanka, the World Bank Group and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD). It aims to transform smallholder farming, create employment opportunities and strengthen global food security.
The Sri Lanka AgriConnect Joint Implementation Plan was officially launched at the event, attended by Minister of Agriculture, Livestock, Land and Irrigation K.D. Lalkantha, along with representatives of the World Bank Group and IFAD.
Addressing the event, the Prime Minister stated that the future of Sri Lanka’s agricultural sector is closely linked to the future of the national economy. She emphasised that supporting farmers, strengthening food systems and expanding opportunities in rural communities are essential to building economic resilience and ensuring long-term development.
The Prime Minister further noted that AgriConnect Sri Lanka marks an important step towards transforming the country’s agrifood sector into a more productive, resilient and competitive driver of economic growth. She highlighted the importance of bringing together the Government, development partners, the private sector and farming communities to achieve this shared objective.
Referring to the Government’s Public Investment Programme 2027–2031, the Prime Minister stated that approximately LKR 17.5 trillion has been allocated for public investment over five years, including around LKR 8.3 trillion to support the transition towards a production-based economy.
She emphasised that these investments will strengthen agriculture, industry, tourism, innovation and digital transformation, while developing the infrastructure required to enhance productivity, attract investment and generate quality employment opportunities across the country.
The Prime Minister underscored that modernising agriculture through technology, innovation and strategic partnerships is vital to building a stronger agricultural sector and securing sustainable economic growth for Sri Lanka, the PM’s Office said.
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