Tokyo Donor Conference ends; US$ 4.5 billion pledged

[June 11, 2003 - 10.00 GMT]  

Tokyo Conference on Reconstruction and Development of Sri Lanka concluded yesterday pledging financial assistance of US$ 4.5 billion. The international community has assured its profound support for establishing lasting peace in Sri Lanka.

The Declaration adopted by the participating nations and international organisations at the termination of the conference yesterday affirmed “commitment to the reconstruction and development of Sri Lanka” and called upon all segments of Sri Lankan society to “redouble their efforts to make further progress in the peace process.” 

Prime Minister Ranil Wickremasinghe said the aid pledged would “lay the foundation for realisation of our goal of a peaceful Sri Lanka in which all people could live in harmony, peace and dignity.”

The declaration noted that the assistance by the donor community must be closely linked to substantial and parallel progress in the peace process towards fulfilment of the objectives agreed upon by the parties in Oslo. “In view of the linkage between donor support and progress in the peace process, the international community will monitor and review the progress in the peace process.”

Donor countries and organisations also urged the LTTE to return to the peace talks as soon as possible to allow the people in the conflict-affected areas of North and East to enjoy the dividends of peace.

The confab commenced on Monday at the Akasaka Prince Hotel, Tokyo with the participation of ministers and representatives from 51 countries and 22 international organisations.

The cumulative estimated amount of assistance will be in excess of US dollars 4.5 billion for a four-year period from 2003-2006. The total includes the Poverty Reduction and Growth Fund [PRGF] which is  approximately US$ 550 Million.  The aid will be in grants as well as concessionary loans. In addition, some countries and international organisations have offered technical support.

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Last Updated Date: June 11, 2003  - 10.00 GMT.