Japan's Grant Fuels Anti-Corruption Drive in Sri Lanka

Japan has committed a USD 2.5 million grant to strengthen anti-corruption efforts in Sri Lanka, a move that officials formalized on Tuesday in Colombo. The initiative, inked between Japanese Ambassador Akio Isomata and UNDP Resident Representative Azusa Kubota, aims to fortify the country's governance structures.

Sri Lanka's Minister of Justice and National Integration, Harshana Nanayakkara, attended the signing ceremony, which marks Japan's continued support in battling corruption. The project will enhance investigation processes, foster better coordination among related entities, and bolster the quality of legal actions concerning corruption cases.

Further, the initiative seeks to deepen civic participation, with a particular focus on engaging youth, media, and children in anti-corruption endeavors. The background to this commitment includes prior allegations against high-ranking officials in a Japan-assisted project and cancelled agreements, underscoring the urgent need for effective governance reforms.

(With inputs from agencies.)