With specific reference to Sri Lanka, the social situation was severely aggravated by the incapacity of millions of people to purchase fuel, food and other services. The IMF reached staff-level agreement with Sri Lanka on a $2.9 billion package in September, but its executive board has not yet approved the loan. Over the last few years, China has built railway lines, improved a major port and expanded an airport inside of Sri Lanka. A 26.75-kilometer railroad between Matara and Beliatta in the southern part of Sri Lanka was inaugurated on Monday with a top speed of 120 kilometers per hour, by far the fastest in Sri Lanka. Similar discussions and agreements with previous governments in Sri Lanka have also taken place over the years.

Source: Washington Post January 31, 2023 21:19 UTC