ICASL and ACCA pledge to strengthen partnership

The country’s national accounting body, the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Sri Lanka (ICASL) and the global body for accounting professionals, the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) recently pledged to work together in its effort to strengthen the accountancy profession in Sri Lanka.

From left: Aruna Alwis – CEO/Secretary; Arjuna Herat – Member of Council ICASL; Sujeewa Mudalige – President ICASL; Mark Gold – President ACCA; Helen Brand – Chief Executive Officer ACCA; Laurie Gillow – Executive Director Markets of ACCA; and Lucia Real-Martin – Director Emerging Markets Asia of ACCA

During a meeting held recently ICASL and ACCA agreed to further cooperation in the coming year. The rapid economic development in Sri Lanka was highlighted, particularly in the BPO sector, resulting in an increased demand for accounting professionals.

During the meeting attended by ICASL President Sujeewa Mudalige, CEO Aruna Alwis and Council Member Arjuna Herath, ACCA Chief Executive Helen Brand gave an undertaking to work in partnership with the ICASL to assist in meeting with the growing demand for accountants. ACCA President Mark Gold was also present at the meeting.

The two accounting bodies are also looking at developing a roadmap towards enhanced recognition and further collaboration on areas such as international financial reporting standards, sustainability and access to finance.