The Sri Lankan government and the World Bank have signed a USD 80.5 million additional financing agreement to enable the island nation access and distribute COVID-19 vaccines and t strengthen the country’s vaccination system and pandemic response.

Sajith Attygalle, Secretary to the Ministry of Finance, signed on behalf of the government. For World Bank the signatory was its

Country Director for Sri Lanka Faris Hadad-Zervos, internet newspaper  ColomboPage reported.

“Solidarity and support of all stakeholders are key to fight this pandemic,” said Faris Hadad-Zervos.

“The World Bank remains responsive to the health priorities of Sri Lanka as well as emergency needs.  Effective deployment of the vaccines will help Sri Lanka protect people, build human capital and facilitate inclusive economic recovery.”

The second additional financing to the COVID-19 Emergency Response and Health System Preparedness Project is for purchasing and deploying safe and effective COVID-19 vaccines that meet the World Bank’s Vaccine Approval Criteria, to strengthen relevant health systems that are necessary for successful deployment, and to prepare for the future.

“The Government of Sri Lanka is committed to protecting our population from the impacts of the pandemic, and we have placed high priority on strengthening and expanding the COVID-19 vaccination program.” said Minister of Health Pavithra Wanniarachchi.

The COVID-19 Emergency Response and Health System Preparedness Project with a total of USD 298.07 million has contributed to Sri Lanka’s pandemic management and prevention efforts.

Project funds have contributed to the provision of essential works, goods, services and consultancies for emergency pandemic management and prevention activities, including the procurement of medical and surgical consumables.

(SAM)