UNDP Regional Director Kanni Wignaraja Engages on Sri Lanka’s Development Priorities

United Nations Assistant Secretary-General and UNDP Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific, Kanni Wignaraja, held discussions on advancing Sri Lanka’s development cooperation with the United Nations, focusing on key national priorities and future growth opportunities.

As the highest-ranking Sri Lankan official in the current UN system, Wignaraja’s engagement highlighted the United Nations Development Programme’s (UNDP) continued support across a wide spectrum of sectors critical to the country’s progress.

The discussions centred on Sri Lanka’s digitalisation drive, with emphasis on strengthening technological infrastructure and enabling more efficient public services. Renewable energy development also featured prominently, reflecting the country’s commitment to sustainable and environmentally responsible growth.

Another key area of focus was the enhancement of skills and capacity within the Sri Lankan workforce, aimed at improving employability and competitiveness in a rapidly evolving global economy. In addition, both sides explored opportunities in climate financing, including mechanisms such as climate credits, green bonds, blue bonds, and other innovative financing solutions to support environmental resilience.

Health and tourism were also discussed as priority sectors, with UNDP expressing its readiness to collaborate on initiatives that strengthen public health systems and promote sustainable tourism development.

The meeting underscored the strong partnership between Sri Lanka and the United Nations, reaffirming a shared commitment to inclusive growth, sustainability, and long-term national development.