High-Level Meeting at Presidential Secretariat Charts Course for Groundbreaking Water Supply Sector Reform with ADB Partnership

November 20, 2023

In a fresh move towards bolstering Sri Lanka's water supply infrastructure, a high-profile discussion transpired at the Presidential Secretariat, helmed by Sagala Ratnayaka, Senior Advisor to the President on National Security and Chief of Presidential Staff. The meeting, attended by representatives from the Asian Development Bank (ADB), revolved around the imminent water supply sector reform program, slated to be implemented with financial backing from the ADB.

The focal point of the deliberations was the policy planning and monitoring framework integral to the proposed reform program. Emphasizing the need for meticulous planning, the participants delved into key objectives aimed at elevating the management of climate-resilient, safe, and environmentally sustainable water supply systems. The discussions also addressed strategies to fortify the policy framework, with a particular emphasis on governance, sustainability, efficiency, resilience, and capacity in water operations.

Collaborative efforts for the successful execution of this ambitious initiative were highlighted during the meeting. The Prime Minister's Office, the Ministry of Water Supply, and the National Water Supply and Drainage Board were identified as key players in driving this reform forward.

Among the distinguished attendees were Minister Jeevan Thondaman, President's Senior Adviser on Economic Affairs Dr. R.H. S. Samaratunga, and the Secretary of the Ministry of Water Supply, Mr. R.M.W.S. Samaradivakara. Asian Development Bank's Country Director for Sri Lanka, Mr. Takafumi Kadono, and other representatives from the ADB also participated in the comprehensive discussion.