Sri Lanka, Aug. 31 -- The Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) defended its autonomy in carrying out its mandate to achieve price and financial stability from political interference as it marked its 75th anniversary since its establishment in 1950.

"The CBSL has maintained integrity and will never compromise its independence," Governor Dr. Nandalal Weerasinghe told a gathering at the Bank to mark the milestone last week. Delivering the anniversary oration, Dr. Weerasinghe paid tribute to the first Governor of the Central Bank John Exter and all successive Governors and the Monetary Boards that steadfastly upheld the independence of the Bank. Quoting President of the Deutsche Bundesbank Joachim Nagel, who said Central Bank independence is the...