No IMF funds till end of this year: Udayanga

Former Ambassador to Russia Udayanga Weeratunga said the International Monetary Fund (IMF) will not give even a dime until the end of this year.

While speaking to the media, he warned that the number of tourist arrivals may decrease due to the protests and violent acts taking place in the country.

He said the country will have to face a massive challenge to purchase essential items if it is unable to earn foreign exchange in the next three to four months by bringing in tourists.

He further said: "Having a peaceful atmosphere in a country is vital for the tourism industry. There's no conducive environment in the country when there are constant protests. The tourists will also not come as long as there are protests. This is the season where tourists arrive in large numbers. The public should understand as well as those who engage in protests that if we do not bring in tourists to earn foreign exchange in these three to four months, we will face a grave threat. We will not have US Dollars to purchase essential items. The IMF will also not give a dime until the end of this year."