U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Scott Nathan concluded a two-day visit to Colombo, Sri Lanka, where he launched new investments and met with Sri Lankan leaders.
On November 7th, CEO Nathan participated in a launch event for a new DFC investment at the Port of Colombo. This investment will support the construction of a new terminal at the port, which is expected to increase capacity by 30% and create thousands of jobs. The new terminal will also be equipped with state-of-the-art technology to improve efficiency and reduce emissions.
On November 8th, CEO Nathan participated in a signing ceremony for DFC’s investment commitment to Citizens Development Business Finance (CDB). This investment will support CDB’s efforts to promote inclusive lending in Sri Lanka. CDB will use the DFC financing to increase lending to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), women entrepreneurs, and businesses in underserved communities.During his visit, CEO Nathan also met with leaders from the country’s top commercial and development banks, as well as high-level Sri Lankan government officials. These meetings focused on strengthening partnerships between DFC and Sri Lankan institutions and exploring new opportunities for collaboration.
“Sri Lanka is a key partner for the United States, and we are committed to supporting the country’s economic development,” said CEO Nathan. “DFC’s investments in Sri Lanka are designed to create jobs, promote inclusive growth, and support the country’s efforts to address climate change.”
CEO Nathan also toured the facilities of several DFC clients in Sri Lanka. These tours gave him a firsthand look at how DFC’s financing is supporting these businesses in achieving their development goals.
DFC is a development finance agency that partners with the private sector to finance solutions to the most critical challenges facing the developing world today. DFC invests across sectors including energy, healthcare, critical infrastructure, and technology. DFC also provides financing for small businesses and women entrepreneurs in order to create jobs in emerging markets. DFC investments adhere to high standards and respect the environment, human rights, and worker rights.