This morning, a meeting was convened at the Presidential Secretariat between President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and leaders from various banks and financial institutions, coinciding with the introduction of the National QR Payment Promotion Initiative.
During the meeting, the President outlined the vital role that banks and financial institutions must play in ensuring the successful implementation of this initiative, which signifies a significant step forward in Sri Lanka’s digital evolution. He also highlighted the ways in which the banking sector can facilitate the adoption of this new payment method, aiming to make it more user-friendly and attractive to the public.
In-depth discussions took place regarding immediate actions necessary to tackle any challenges that may arise during the program’s rollout, as well as strategies to promote its swift acceptance within the community.
Central Bank Governor Dr. Nandalal Weerasinghe addressed the meeting, indicating that the costs associated with cash transactions through ATMs represent a considerable financial burden for banks. He stressed that embracing this new transaction method could lead to a reduction in these expenses. Furthermore, the Governor asserted that the new QR payment system would provide a more efficient, secure, and dependable option for consumers.
Acting General Manager and CEO of the Bank of Ceylon, Y. A. Jayathilaka, also spoke on behalf of the banking sector, revealing that initiatives are already underway to promote digital transactions among the public. He expressed the commitment of the banking community to fully support the government’s initiative and contribute to the nation’s transition towards a digital economy.
Attendees included Deputy Minister of Digital Economy Eranga Weeraratne, Senior Presidential Advisor on the Digital Economy Dr. Hans Wijayasuriya, Secretary to the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development Dr. Harshana Suriyapperuma, Secretary to the Ministry of Digital Economy Varuna Sri Dhanapala, and Senior Additional Secretary to the President Russell Aponsu.
Other notable participants were the Chairpersons of several banks, including Professor Narada Fernando from the People’s Bank, Kavinda de Soysa from the Bank of Ceylon, Sharhan Muhseen from Commercial Bank, Sanjaya Gunawardena from Sampath Bank, and Damith Pallewatte from Hatton National Bank, along with various other representatives from both state and private banking institutions.
