Commenting on the Government's initiatives toward rapid infrastructure development, Dr. Mohan said that it was a very wise decision to put in place development plans that focus on the medium and long term and not just the short term. Dr. Mohan said he was "delighted to see that” because it is very seldom that countries implement such long-term strategies.  

President Rajapaksa said that the long-term, sustainable development of the country was always his priority when devising development initiatives for Sri Lanka.   

Dr. Mohan also said that the IMF wants to promote interconnectivity among the regions of SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) and ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) because these regions are among the least connected.  

Commenting on the role President Rajapaksa can play in the region, Dr. Mohan said, "You are the senior leader in SAARC."  

The President and Dr. Mohan also discussed the BRICS Bank, an institution headed by Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa. The discussion also focused on how Sri Lanka could benefit from BRICS.  

Governor of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka Mr. Ajith Nivard Cabraal was present for the meeting. (KH)