Economics

Sri Lanka to Co-Host 2026 Asian Debt Management Conference

The Sri Lanka 2026 Asian Debt Management Conference will bring together debt managers from across Asia to discuss public debt challenges, share expertise, and enhance regional collaboration through workshops and technical sessions.


Sri Lanka co-hosts the 2026 Asian Debt Management Conference to strengthen regional cooperation


Sri Lanka’s Cabinet has approved a proposal to co-host the 2026 Asian Regional Debt Management Conference in May next year, according to Cabinet Spokesman Nalinda Jayatissa. The conference, organized annually by the Asian Development Bank (ADB), provides a platform for debt managers from member countries to exchange insights, address challenges, and strengthen regional cooperation in public debt management.

Scheduled to run over four to five days, the conference will feature surveys, technical workshops, and expert-led sessions highlighting debt management operations, innovative approaches, and emerging challenges. Participants will include senior officials from finance ministries, central banks, debt management offices, and other relevant institutions across the ADB’s member countries.

“This conference will not only advance Sri Lanka’s international prestige in public debt management but also foster stronger bilateral and regional relationships with Asian member countries and international financial institutions,” Jayatissa explained during the weekly cabinet briefing. He further emphasized that the event will facilitate knowledge sharing and capacity building for debt management operations.

The decision to co-host the conference was presented by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, in his capacity as Minister of Finance, Planning, and Economic Development, and has been officially endorsed by the Cabinet of Ministers. Hosting the 2026 edition represents a strategic opportunity for Sri Lanka to position itself as a hub for regional financial dialogue and best practices in debt management.

Debt management remains a critical component of fiscal policy for many Asian countries, particularly in light of the post-pandemic economic recovery and rising global borrowing costs. By facilitating discussions on innovative debt strategies, risk mitigation, and sustainable financing, the conference aims to strengthen the operational capacity of participating nations while promoting regional financial stability.

The conference’s interactive workshops and technical sessions are designed to equip debt managers with practical tools and insights to address evolving challenges, including market volatility, public debt sustainability, and regulatory compliance. These knowledge-sharing opportunities are expected to yield long-term benefits for participating countries, enabling them to implement robust debt management frameworks.

Co-hosting this prominent event also enhances Sri Lanka’s visibility on the international financial stage. By engaging with regional partners and multilateral organizations, the country can showcase its commitment to fiscal responsibility, transparency, and professional excellence in public finance.

In addition, the conference provides a platform to discuss emerging trends in debt instruments, financial technologies, and best practices in debt monitoring. Sharing these insights promotes efficiency, strengthens governance, and supports sustainable economic growth across Asia.

Sri Lanka’s involvement as a co-host underscores its strategic role in fostering regional cooperation and facilitating knowledge exchange in public debt management. The event is expected to attract high-level policymakers, technical experts, and practitioners, offering networking opportunities that can translate into stronger partnerships and collaborative initiatives in the future.

The 2026 Asian Regional Debt Management Conference will be a landmark event for Sri Lanka, highlighting the country’s commitment to fiscal excellence, regional leadership, and the promotion of sound debt management practices. By providing a structured platform for dialogue and collaboration, the conference aims to drive long-term improvements in public finance management across the Asian region.