11 August 2023 12:05 am
A delegation of 12 prominent Indian investors, with a keen interest in initiating multiple projects within Sri Lanka’s shipping and aviation sectors, this week met with Ports, Shipping and Aviation Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva.
During the discussion, the Indian investors expressed their group’s primary focus on contributing to the future development of the Kankesanthurai and Trincomalee ports.
The minister highlighted the Sri Lanka Port Authority’s efforts in enhancing infrastructure at the Kankesanthurai Port, aimed at facilitating passenger cruise and luxury ship services between Kankesanthurai and India.
The minister underscored the potential for investor participation with the Indian government’s consent.
The investors conveyed their intention to invest in the passenger transport project, subject to the Indian government’s approval and committed to engaging relevant stakeholders in future deliberations.
Turning to investment prospects in Sri Lanka’s aviation sector, the minister detailed various opportunities linked to aviation services within the precincts of Mattala Airport. The ministry plans to invite proposals for these opportunities in due course, a matter of significant interest to the Indian investors.
Additionally, both parties explored the prospect of establishing direct flight routes connecting major Indian cities’ airports with the Ratmalana, Palali and Batticaloa airports in Sri Lanka.
The discussion, held at the Ports, Shipping and Aviation Ministry, saw the participation of 12 representatives, including Dr. Arvind Gupta, Ashok K. Kanth and Lt. Gen. R.K. Sawhney, along with Ministry Secretary K.D.S. Ruwanchandra and Ports Authority Chairman Keith Barnard.